When the Annenberg Center for Health Sciences was opened in 1981, it initiated an acquisitions program for reproductions of paintings in world-renowned museums that demonstrate the link between art and medicine. These images represent not only medical conditions and treatments, but also the state of mind: how people of an era viewed sickness and health, death and life. Visitors to the Annenberg Center benefit from and enjoy these works because they tell the greatest tale of all: the story of the human condition.
The Honorable and Mrs. Walter H. Annenberg underwrote the collection of 95 art reproductions, which adds an unparalleled dimension and ambiance to the Center's learning environment. It took five years to research and collect the reproduction rights from museums and private collections from around the world. The Ambassador approved each piece of the original collection. He was particularly drawn to paintings that told a story – he loved to observe, compare and gain insight from art. A great source of pride to the Ambassador, the collection today remains a focal point of interest to all who visit the Center.
