Healing Through Creativity

By Sherine Atieno and Brand Omega.                                                                                                                                                In celebration of World Art Day, Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) has turned the spotlight on Joteen Arts, a gifted pen artist and long-term client at the hospital’s Wellness Centre, under the Medically Assisted Therapy (MAT) clinic. Joteen has been receiving treatment at the facility for the past ten years, having been referred from Uganda through the AMPATH program. Like many others battling substance use, his journey was marked by prolonged addiction to cocaine and heroin, which intensified during his stay in the streets of Uganda—particularly near the border regions, which are known for high drug use. The MAT clinic at JOOTRH, which serves persons who inject drugs (PWID), particularly opioids, has offered him a safe haven and a new lease on life. Through the support of methadone treatment and ongoing psychosocial care, Joteen has experienced a holistic transformation. The program not only helped him manage addiction but also nurtured his artistic talent, which emerged early in his life. He now practices pen art, creating striking illustrations that reflect various themes—from community life to powerful social messages. Art has become his main source of income, though not yet sustainable. He continues to face challenges, particularly due to limited access to professional art materials. With improved tools such as acrylic pens, sketch pads, ink liners, and blending markers, Joteen believes he could take his work to the next level and reach broader markets. Within JOOTRH, his artwork has been instrumental in transforming the environment—especially in the paediatric wing. At Obama Children’s Hospital, Joteen has painted lively animations and visual scenes across ward walls and clinics, creating a cheerful and therapeutic space for young patients. Completed in under a month, these artistic installations have significantly contributed to children's emotional well-being and responsiveness to treatment. The presence of colour and familiar imagery provides a comforting distraction during their healing process. Joteen’s impact goes beyond aesthetic beauty. His work includes educational and awareness-driven illustrations, depicting the journey of young people into drug use, the emotional toll of addiction, and the importance of education in environments affected by insecurity. These visuals serve as powerful tools for awareness and behavioural change. Additionally, Joteen has captured the likeness of prominent figures through portraiture. His collection at JOOTRH includes artworks of global leaders and institutional executives such as Dr. Richard Lesiyampe, CEO; Dr. Dedan Ong’ong’a, Senior Director of Clinical Services; Teresa Okiri, Senior Director of Clinical Services; and Joshua Okise, Senior Director of Finance and Administration. Joteen's time at the Wellness Centre has been transformative—both as a patient and as an artist. He encourages youth to believe in themselves, discover their potential, and use their talents to make a difference.