ArtPrize Gallery
Pamela has been an ArtPrize artist since 2009
ArtPrize is the largest open art competition in the world that began in 2009. For two weeks, the entire downtown area of Grand Rapids is an art venue, and the winner is decided by the public based on voting. This is a unique event involving local and international artists, art, and the active participation of the community.
Pamela's ArtPrize 2011 Series
Braving the Wind
Braving the Wind honors The Cancer Center at Metro Health
September 21, 2011 through October 9, 2011
Amway Grand Plaze Hotel • Grand Rapids
NOTE: Braving the Wind will be exhibited at the Women's Expo March 9-11, 2012.
Braving the Wind
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Rising on the Wind
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Gulls on the Shore
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Braving the Wind: The Inspiration
Kara was only 28 when she was first diagnosed with lymphoma. Cancer had claimed her grandmother at 49. Now Kara wondered if she would live or die.
Following treatments, she ran in her first half marathon. She said, “Past runners helped raise money for my treatment. So I wanted to do the same for future cancer patients.”
But hip pain prevented her from running in the next race. Then medical tests revealed a recurrence of cancer. The following summer she received a second diagnosis: breast cancer.
For ArtPrize 2011, I have depicted Kara in Braving the Wind. Her vulnerable health that contrasts with her faith and determination inspired me. Just as The Cancer Center at Metro Health provides a tranquil atmosphere for her treatments, so my artwork symbolizes hope and healing.
The viewer is also invited to become a part of the story in Braving the Wind. By writing the name of a loved one—who has bravely fought a cancer battle—on a Hope Card and hanging it on the Healing Tree, we honor their struggle.
Today Kara expresses gratefulness for life. Resolved to beat her cancer and run again, she grasps this famous quote: “The miracle isn't that I finished; the miracle is that I had the courage to start.”
See previous ArtPrize Works: ArtPrize 2009 | ArtPrize 2010
A portion from your purchase will support one or more of the following cancer organizations: American Cancer Association's Hope Lodge, Gilda's Club, Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Team in Training, and Susan G. Komen.
