Healing Through Art: Leena Abuoqab ’27 Creates H.Art to Connect Generations

For Leena Abuoqab ’27, art has always been a meaningful form of expression, but through her AP Research course at Canterbury, she began to explore its impact more deeply.

Combining her passion for creativity with her interest in science, specifically neurology, Leena researched the cognitive benefits of visual art for older adults. Studies have shown that creating art can support memory, attention, motor skills, and overall cognitive performance. Inspired by this research, Leena founded H.Art, which stands for Healing Through Art.

H.Art is a student-led initiative designed to bridge the intergenerational gap between students and older adults through collaborative speed painting sessions at senior living communities. During each event, students are paired with seniors, and each pair begins painting on separate canvases. After eight minutes, they swap canvases, encouraging each participant to adapt, think creatively, and build on the other person’s ideas.

While the experience is grounded in the cognitive and motor benefits of art, Leena believes the most meaningful impact comes through the relationships formed during each session. Students and seniors share stories, exchange ideas, laugh together, and create genuine connections.

For Leena, H.Art is not about perfect technique or producing a perfect final piece. It is about creativity, conversation, and the power of art to bring generations together.

Watch the video to learn more about Leena’s inspiration, her research, and her hopes for the future of H.Art.

Special thank you to Shell Point and Brookdale College Parkway for partnering with Leena and Canterbury School on this wonderful service project!