Charlotte Kesl, the program coordinator, said 352Creates was meant to inspire creativity and highlight how it plays a role in health. The program was inspired by UF Health's Arts in Medicine program.
“It kind of humanizes the hospital experience, so this is an extension of that,” Kesl said.
She said the event also builds community. The main event on Saturday had dozens of groups come out to dance, sing, do crafts and more. Throughout the day there were also talks about visual arts, a kids station and yoga.
The initiative also included more than 80 other events across 13 counties in North Central Florida
Everett Yancey, who volunteered at the event as part of his internship with Arts in Medicine, said he was fortunate to get involved because he loves the work Arts in Medicine does.
“They help people, they are genuinely concerned with bettering people’s lives,” Yancey said.
Tony Kolenic helps his son, Simon Kolenic, pretend to drive a car at the Master Builder Camp in Depot Park on Saturday. (Romy Ellenbogen/WUFT News)
Piper Call, a dancer with the Inisheer Irish Dance Company, leads a traditional Irish dance. (Romy Ellenbogen/WUFT News)
Paul Reed takes an order from Tony Reed at the deli counter inside the Pop A Top convenience store at Depot Park. (Romy Ellenbogen/WUFT News)
Jason Rockhill puts together a painted scene of Gainesville to welcome guests. (Romy Ellenbogen/WUFT News)
Shane McNutt leads hatha yoga on a hill in Depot Park on Saturday. (Romy Ellenbogen/WUFT News)
Jake Darnell, a UF student, performs with his acapella group, Tone Def A Capella, singing a mashup of pop and R&B songs at the 352Creates event on Saturday. (Romy Ellenbogen/WUFT News)
Aly Maier and Audrey Campbell build their own “crazy hats” out of pipe cleaner at the kids’ area of the 352 creates event. (Romy Ellenbogen/WUFT News)
Molly Sullan plays with Pepito, a 6-month-old Chihuahua mix who was rescued from a high speed car jacking. (Romy Ellenbogen/WUFT News)
Ruby Ryan, 4, paints a display for her window to create a stained glass effect. (Romy Ellenbogen/WUFT News)