Occupational Therapy - Announcements

Lifelike Sculptures Shape 65th Anniversary

Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy celebrated 65 Years of Building Better Lives at USC with a momentous J. Seward Johnson Sculpture exhibition last Fall. The connection between Mr. Johnson’s work and occupational science becomes most apparent when we revisit the Latin root of occupation: to take control of time. In his sculptures, Johnson immortalizes moments when people do take control of their time by taking breaks to do the simple things that make them feel good -- walking a dog, laying in the grass to watch the clouds, or painting a landscape. He consecrates these special moments in art. For our faculty, students and staff, his works epitomize the substance of our profession, the effect of every day activity on health and well being.

Slowing Down in the Fast New World

A part of the Provost Nikias’ Visions and Voices Arts and Humanities Initiative, the Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy hosted a multidisciplinary faculty panel and interactive picnic with students to discuss Slowing Down in the Fast New World. How does the pursuit of “the good life” relate to time, wealth, technology and health in today’s fast paced world? The panel was moderated by Gelya Frank, professor of occupational science and occupational therapy and anthropology. Panelests included Peter Whybrow, MD, author of American Mania, When More is Not Enough; Paula Stoeke, artist and photographer; Evan Kleiman, founder of Slow Food Los Angeles, KCRW host of Good Food and owner of Angeli Cafe; and Robert Gottlieb, professor and director of the Urban and Environmental Policy Institute at Occidental College.