Right now I am painting. Painting like I have never painted…
let me catch you up….a few months ago I received an email from a woman named Kelley who is friends with another friend of mine, Maddy. Kelley (and Maddy) are very involved with different aspects of fundraising and planning for the NEW UVA Children’s Medical center – THE BATTLE BUILDING . The Battle building is a long awaited and much anticipated addition to the UVA Healthcare system and consists of “Seven floors and 200,000 square feet house dozens of pediatric specialties, ranging from primary to specialized care in cancer, heart disorders and many other pediatric illnesses”.
Each year, an incredible group of people hold a GALA to raise money for the UVA Chidren’s Medical Center and for the past 3 years I have donated artwork to the silent auction. My work has been well received and I have LOVED making my contribution to such an endeavor. Well, Kelley, wanted to know if I would be okay with my name being submitted to be one of the artists to provide ARTWORK for the new building. Of course I said “YES”..and fast forward to a few weeks ago..I was selected! This is hands down the most exciting ART project I have ever been a part of and I am determined to paint pieces that will compliment the comforting environment they have created.
I am a bit superstitious and you will have to wait until the June 13 opening when I will show you what I have painted but I will tell you that one piece is 48″ x 60″ and that piece is NOT the biggest piece!!!!
This project is such a serendipitous combination of so many parts of ME. The “Artist” Lesli, the “Nurse” Lesli and the “Mom” Lesli. My goal is to bring whimsical, colorful paintings into an environment where someone might be hurting, or scared or frightened and maybe even for a minute my paintings can serve as a happy distraction…. to take the fear and sadness away. I want my work to say “You are not alone…I am watching over you…” I want my paintings to be “Visual Hug”
Now, back to my easel but I did want to share my exciting news with you, my dear loyal blog friends!!!! Thanks for hanging in there with me!
Congratulations on your artwork being selected-that is fabulous! And well deserved. I’m sure your paintings will help relax any scared and sick kiddos while there. What a legacy for your family as well.
Oh Lesli—
I’m very excited for you! Congratulations on being selected to provide artwork for such a worthy environment, It truly sounds like the perfect blend of all your capabilities and talents. I look forward to seeing what you create for this new place. Meanwhile— keep painting!
How exciting! I can’t wait to see what you paint for this special place. My dad is a retired UVa pediatrician and so I am very familiar with the journey that UVa has traveled to get to this point. Your happy paintings will be such a treat for the kids.
Right now, I am eating a Panera oatmeal raisin cookie, which is far less productive than what you are doing!
How cool is that!! Congrats and enjoy this opportunity. Can’t wait to see your work!
Awesome!!!! (((hugs)))
Congrats Lesli. Your artwork brings smiles to so many people and I’m sure the children and their family’s will love it.
Congratulations, Lesli. What a wonderful project and you are the perfect person to provide artwork for this facility.