A new day has dawned at the National Institute of Pneumology “Marius Nasta” in Bucharest, Romania, and it is more vibrant than ever. Theia Catrina Mirodot, a first-year art student, has transformed one of the institute’s walls into a canvas that tells a powerful story of resilience and hope.
The mural, called “Tuberculosis & Pollution”, is a striking reminder of the persistent public health threat that tuberculosis (TB) poses in Romania. With over 20% of the cases in the WHO European Region being recorded in Romania, the disease remains a significant concern, particularly among vulnerable populations and those with low socioeconomic status.
Theia’s mural is not just about the problem – it is also about the fight against TB and pollution and about hope and healing. The butterfly, a central element in the mural, symbolizes the patient suffering from TB who gradually recovers. The transformation of the butterfly mirrors the healing process of the patient, from being protected in a bubble by dedicated health-care professionals to taking flight once cured.
The mural was the result of a competition launched on 24 March 2024, World TB Day, by the National Institute in partnership with the WHO Country Office in Romania and the National University of Arts. The competition aimed to raise awareness of the association between TB and pollution and to highlight the importance of TB prevention and treatment.
“This project is a powerful example of the significant contribution of arts to health and well-being, particularly in city initiatives. The mural is a call to protect our environment, support TB prevention and celebrate the resilience of those affected. Every butterfly that takes flight is a victory in that battle,” stated Caroline Clarinval, WHO Representative in Romania.
Taking TB and air pollution awareness one step further
Theia’s winning artwork, which she painted together with 5 other art students, used air-purifying paint, an innovative technology that converts harmful air pollutants into harmless compounds, contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment. This mural is therefore not just a painting – it is a step towards a healthier future.
The artwork will be visible at the National Institute, as well as in the rest of Bucharest and in the main cities of Iasi and Craiova. A bus and billboard campaign featuring Theia’s artwork will raise awareness of the impact of pollution on air quality in some of the country’s most polluted cities – places that also have a high incidence of TB.
With this project, and following a recent donation covering Romania’s TB diagnostic equipment needs for 1 year, the WHO Country Office in Romania reiterates its commitment to support national efforts to reduce the TB burden in Romania.
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Publish date : 2024-07-02 07:00:00
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The post “Tuberculosis & Pollution” – young artists draw attention to lung health in Romania first appeared on Love Europe.
Author : love-europe
Publish date : 2024-10-07 02:09:57
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