Curing Cancer One Masterpiece at a Time!™

There’s scientific proof that art therapy is good for your physical health. It increases our level of cortisol and our level of serotonin. We secrete hormones when we visit a museum and these hormones are responsible for our well-being. People tend to think art is only good for mental health issues. That it’s for people who’re depressed or who have psychological problems. But that’s not the case. Art is good for patients with diabetes, in palliative care, for people with chronic illness such as cancer.
- Dr. Boyer https://montrealgazette.com/news/local-news/doctors-can-soon-prescribe-visits-to-montreal-museum-of-fine-arts

In the face of my battle with cancer, I've discovered the profound healing power of art. While my doctors may not have prescribed museum visits as they do in Canada, art has become a lifeline, helping me navigate the challenging journey of treatment and recovery.

Creating art has been a transformative experience, enabling me to see the world through a different lens. The process of painting is akin to solving an intricate puzzle, requiring patience, persistence, and a willingness to learn from trial and error. These skills have not only enriched my artistic endeavors but have also proven invaluable in my work in the ever-evolving field of digital marketing.

Although I stepped away from painting after launching FoundObjects.com in 1999, my love for art has never waned. I make it a point to visit museums five to ten times a year, immersing myself in the beauty and inspiration they offer. The North Carolina Museum of Art (NCMA) holds a special place in my heart, with its familiar paintings that feel like old friends and thought-provoking works that challenge my assumptions and expand my horizons.

Living with Art, Living with Hope

Beyond the museum walls, art is a constant companion in my daily life. Brittany Søndberg's Daybreak sculpture, illuminated at night by LED lights, serves as a beacon of hope and resilience. The works of Ed Besh, Adam D. Cohen, and Pete Sack provide solace, joy, and courage when I need it most.

As a cancer patient, the hospital can be a high-stress environment where one is confronted with the harsh realities of life, mortality, and death. Healthcare workers, focused on their tasks, may unintentionally handle patients roughly, adding to the emotional toll of treatment.

In these moments, art becomes my sanctuary. Immersing myself in the beauty of Daybreak's flowing lines, the childlike wonder of Gathering Strength, or the whimsical floating hat in A Place To Keep Knowledge, I find escape and solace. With The Clash, Miles Davis, or Gary Burton playing through my Fostex TH900 headphones, generously gifted by Drew and Nichole, I close my eyes and allow the art to transport me. The hospital's stress fades away, replaced by the endless possibilities, the art that awaits me at home, and the artists who have become cherished friends.

I invite you to share your own stories of how art has touched your life and brought healing in times of need. Together, we can celebrate the transformative power of creativity and the unwavering spirit of those who find strength in its embrace. Please share your experiences here or email me at martin (at) cancerART.org.