Raritan BayMedical Center 2008 Inspirations Art Show

In April 2008, I was honored to be a part of the Raritan Bay Medical Center Spring Exhibit 2008 located in Perth Amboy, New Jersey. This exhibit benefitted the oncology wing of the hospital. I resonated very strongly to this cause, since I am a survivor of cancer.

The opening reception for me was a wonderful experience, and it was made possible through my dear friend, Bea Braswell, who introduced me to the Director of the exhibit, Gina Mancini. I was thrilled to be asked to have my artwork present at this occasion.

Most of the artist were local to the Perth Amboy area or residing in New Jersey.   I was fortunate to share the opening night with my daughters, Anona and Anieka, my husband, Paul, my sister, Melissa, and with my in-laws, William Schaffer and Alice Schaffer.

Unfortunately, my mother, Julie Lerke, was not able to attend the opening night, but came at a later date. I felt the pride and love in that instant when my mother approached my artwork.  It was my mother who nurtured my inner creative spirit as a young child. At that time, no words needed to be spoken, I saw the smile and admiration in her eyes. My mother has always been my inspiration in my artwork and in my personal life.

I want to give thanks my wonderful husband, Paul, who was, and is very supportive in many ways, from being my framer, to my printer and sometimes my critic. Without his support and encouragement, I would not have been ready for this exhibit.

Since 2008, I have been invited back to the Raritan Bay Medical Center Spring Artshow, "Inspirations."  Each April this exhibit runs for approximately six weeks.  The funds from the sale of artwork benefit the Wilentz Cancer Center, Perth Amboy, New Jersey.

 (To see the whole exhibit, click on picture, be patient it takes a couple seconds to download)