Pitt Social Work Students Seek to Raise Awareness of Hoarding Through Art Exhibition, Public Presentation

PITTSBURGH—For the first time, reality TV shows are drawing attention to the previously taboo subject of hoarding. The shows have opened a dialogue about the disorder, but a group of Pitt School of Social Work graduate students say that the lack of knowledge about hoarding, coupled with the dramatic and polarizing TV depiction of it, continues to alienate individuals suffering from the disorder. The students also say there is insufficient research funding to address the problem.

To that end, University of Pittsburgh Hartford Partnership Fellows—School of Social Work students who address issues in geriatric care—are presenting the free pubic art exhibition Canvassing Clutter from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 24 and 25 in Posvar Hall, 230 S. Bouquet St., Oakland.

The display features artwork from more than 20 regional and national artists and will include painting, sculpture, drawings, among other media. Some pieces will available for purchase.

Information about hoarding will be available at the event, and materials on hoarding also are being given to local organizations and key health care professionals. 

Following the exhibition, a presentation titled “Canvassing Clutter: Hartford Partnership Fellowship Presentation 2012,” will be made by the Pitt students at 8:30 a.m. April 11 in Room 2017 of the Cathedral of Learning, 4200 Fifth Ave., Oakland.

The University of Pittsburgh Hartford Partnership Fellows strive for excellence in geriatric social work. Through the partnership, Pitt social work students learn to become highly skilled practitioners who will lead and influence innovation in aging services.  

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3/21/12/mab/lks