Artist of the Week- Ron Himelman, MD

This weeks Window Walk Gallery Highlighted Artist of the Week is Ron Himelman, MD.

“I am a local cardiologist who has had an active practice in Palm Springs for over 30 years. My life as an artist began in 1995 after a trip to Santa Fe, New Mexico, exploring the galleries on Canal Street and absorbing the wonderful combination of Native American and Contemporary art.  This trip awakened a creative spirit that was lying dormant since childhood; I found a need for visual expression initially in painting. 

After an exhibit on El Paseo entitled “Straight from the Heart” with the Zane Gallery 20 years ago for charity, I have mostly painted works as gifts for friends and relatives based on their personalities and passions.  Later, I branched off into metal and stone sculpture.

I now enjoy creating abstract compositions with mixed media set either on canvas or wood, utilizing a combination of unusual “found” or recycled objects, including discarded construction materials, tile, medical items, fast food or takeout boxes, drink caps, and other things.  These celebrate the simple beauty of everyday manufactured items that we take for granted, do not notice, and place in the trash. I have experimented with multiple colors, shapes and sizes.

I want to participate in a gallery that supports mental health awareness for multiple reasons. First of all, I am doing it in honor of my mother who suffered from Alzheimer disease for many years. She was a talented painter and her art was her passion that kept her connected to the world. Her art was expression of her emotions. Looking at my mother’s paintings, I feel connected to her.

Secondly, I personally suffered from depression and making art served as a form of therapy. When I create, I lose track of time as if I’m in a meditative state. Making art is my happy place that takes me away from stresses of my work as interventional cardiologist.

Lastly, I strongly believe that art therapy for people with mental health issues is one of the most effective tools for their recovery. It creates focus, creative thinking and an outlet for emotional expression.”

For more of Ron’s amazing work you can check out his FB link below or head to The River to see his work in person!

FB- https://www.facebook.com/Ron-Himelman-Art-105576688216575
Email: rbhimelman@hotmail.com