Famous painter Pablo Picasso said, “every now and then one paints a picture that seems to have opened a door and serves as a stepping stone to other things.” Following this philosophy, the Foundation for Hospital Art has initiated PaintFest America and selected the Edwards Comprehensive Cancer Center (ECCC) at Cabell Huntington Hospital to represent West Virginia.
One cancer center in each state has been selected to represent that state in an effort to canvas the country with paint, brushes and love to comfort cancer patients. The group will travel to 50 states in 50 days offering patients with cancer, hospital staff and community members the opportunity to work together to create colorful, soothing artwork donated to hospitals to help soften the atmosphere.
“We are excited to be a part of this opportunity to create bright, beautiful artwork that will positively impact cancer patients for years to come,” said Chad Schaeffer, executive director of the Edwards Comprehensive Cancer Center. “And to be selected to represent the state of West Virginia is quite an honor.”
In addition to the canvases that will be painted and donated, the ECCC will be a part of a custom, 50-panel mural entitled “Stars of Hope.”
When PaintFest comes to the ECCC, canvases, pre-designed by Foundation artists, will be available for anyone interested in participating. Individuals complete the paintings following a color-code system on the canvases. The artwork is then touched-up by Foundation artists and donated to hospitals on behalf of ECCC.
“Our volunteers will be a part of painting a unique panel representing West Virginia and the Edwards Comprehensive Cancer Center,” said Schaeffer. “The entire mural, of all 50 states, will be completed and unveiled during the last day of PaintFest’s tour in New York.”
PaintFest will be held on Aug. 14 from Noon to 2 p.m. at the Edwards Comprehensive Cancer Center. Patients, staff and community members are all invited to take part in this unique opportunity. Registration is not required. Refreshments and music will be provided. For more information, contact the ECCC at 304.399.6500 or visit www.hospitalart.com.
