Don’t Worry Be Happy”
Arica Barton
Evanston, IL
Survivor
Twist on Cancer: I am honored to be a part of the Twist out Cancer program and humbled to be considered an Inspiration. While I am not happy to have cancer and would not wish this on myself or anyone else, I have found the diagnosis has been a strong reminder to take care of myself, have gratitude for my life, and to truly live life to its fullest. This has consisted of taking Bucket List trips to Greece and several other places in the world I have always wanted to see, and doing things to focus on myself that I would have otherwise put off- elevating others’ needs and desires over my own. Since my diagnosis, my life has felt full of meaning, love, and fun. When things get hard- and they do get physically, mentally and emotionally difficult- I try to lean into the feelings of anxiety and sadness about the unknown while not dwelling on them. There are no words to describe being suspended between life and the unknown, essentially living in two worlds. My artist, Erin, did an incredible job putting my feelings into art.
Erin Krasman
@erin.krasman.art
Chicago, IL
“Don’t Worry Be Happy”
Acrylic on canvas
30”x40”
$1,200
Artist Statement: Arica embodies warmth, with her big smile and bright hazel eyes. From our first meeting, we talked about every aspect of our lives. As she works as a professional therapist, it’s no wonder our conversation flowed. Sitting at a charming cafe in Evanston, we almost forgot the reason we were there…Arica’s cancer journey. Since her diagnosis, Arica has chosen to live with intention, traveling the world and embracing relationships. She has a strong family with three incredible daughters and a loving husband. In addition, she has a community of extended family and friends that support her.Over the past few months I’ve gotten to know my new friend Arica and how she lives with cancer. She lives with grace, strength and gratitude. Her desire to travel the world, checking off one bucket list item at a time, is inspiring. The color scheme of my piece was inspired by Arica’s travels to a hot-air balloon festival in Albuquerque, New Mexico. One of her first trips post diagnosis. I imagine Arica floating above the skyline with her best friends beside her, taking it all in. I invite the viewer to travel within this piece, experiencing lightness and heaviness, beauty and hope. Arica continues to live her life to the fullest and take each day as it comes. She keeps a gratitude journal as a constant reminder of her daily blessings while looking for “signs” along the way. “Don’t worry, be happy” is always a good and welcomed sign.