Lauren Edelston and Kara Thomas
The Story
Lauren Edelston
Glencoe, IL
Caregiver
Twist on Cancer: Participating in the Brushes 2024 reception is a gift that I'm forever grateful for. Reflecting on my journey with cancer through the lens of a loving daughter and devoted caregiver was a challenging task. Sharing and processing how my mom's life was touched by Breast Cancer while still in the depths of grieving taught me about life, bravery and connection. My mom would be so proud that I took this opportunity to help myself, as well as support others that have a similar story. In many ways participating in Brushes was another way to honor my mother, Nancy Peterson Miller. She was and still is the most special person in my life. As I developed a unique bond with my unbelievably talented artist, Kara Thomas, it made me realize how therapeutic this process is. Talking about my mom through Kara's art, made my experience so beautiful. It made me think of my mom's beauty (both inside and out), the beautiful life she lived and the endless lives she touched. Kara's gentle approach and incredible ability to capture my story and create a meaningful piece of artwork, makes my heart full. Kara is my new angel and art therapy is now an important part of my life. My Twist on Cancer is to work on embracing my relationship with cancer and learn how to twist my way through love, hope and loss. As I found the inner strength to navigate new stages, I was able to believe and trust in my endless circle of support, let go of yesterday's pain and find a sense of freedom in the days ahead. Cancer has many unpredictable stages but, in the end, being part of Brushes made me feel empowered to share, connect and heal, opening a new bright light.
Caregiver
Twist on Cancer: Participating in the Brushes 2024 reception is a gift that I'm forever grateful for. Reflecting on my journey with cancer through the lens of a loving daughter and devoted caregiver was a challenging task. Sharing and processing how my mom's life was touched by Breast Cancer while still in the depths of grieving taught me about life, bravery and connection. My mom would be so proud that I took this opportunity to help myself, as well as support others that have a similar story. In many ways participating in Brushes was another way to honor my mother, Nancy Peterson Miller. She was and still is the most special person in my life. As I developed a unique bond with my unbelievably talented artist, Kara Thomas, it made me realize how therapeutic this process is. Talking about my mom through Kara's art, made my experience so beautiful. It made me think of my mom's beauty (both inside and out), the beautiful life she lived and the endless lives she touched. Kara's gentle approach and incredible ability to capture my story and create a meaningful piece of artwork, makes my heart full. Kara is my new angel and art therapy is now an important part of my life. My Twist on Cancer is to work on embracing my relationship with cancer and learn how to twist my way through love, hope and loss. As I found the inner strength to navigate new stages, I was able to believe and trust in my endless circle of support, let go of yesterday's pain and find a sense of freedom in the days ahead. Cancer has many unpredictable stages but, in the end, being part of Brushes made me feel empowered to share, connect and heal, opening a new bright light.
Kara Thomas
Detroit, MI
www.karamariethomas.com
Social Media: @kara.thomas.art
“Honoring Nancy”
Acrylic paint on wood
26” x 22” x 2”
$2,250
Artist Statement: When I first met Lauren she shared with me that she recently lost her mother, Nancy. During our connections, Lauren talked about her journey caring for her mother, who not only had cancer but also tragically had Alzheimer’s disease. Even though in the last years of her life illness had changed Nancy, I wanted to understand who she had been prior to the diagnoses.
I immediately knew this painting was going to be about their relationship. From the pictures of Nancy that Lauren shared with me I could tell how fun and fabulous she was. Lauren also bravely shared notes that her mother had written to her. These messages shed light into the love that was present in their relationship. For the painting, I knew I wanted to incorporate both a photo of them, along with a message that Nancy had written Lauren.
The title, “Honoring Nancy,” is about how we can pay respect and remember those we have lost through our daily lives. The message written throughout the painting is a reminder for Lauren of the kind of life that Nacy would want for her. A life full of joy, dance, laughter, and singing. A life where Lauren is surrounded by those who love her. The photo seen in the painting is a depiction of Lauren and Nancy’s close connection, and the orchids are a representation of Nancy’s favorite flower and the bouquet that Nancy designed for Lauren’s wedding day.
www.karamariethomas.com
Social Media: @kara.thomas.art
“Honoring Nancy”
Acrylic paint on wood
26” x 22” x 2”
$2,250
Artist Statement: When I first met Lauren she shared with me that she recently lost her mother, Nancy. During our connections, Lauren talked about her journey caring for her mother, who not only had cancer but also tragically had Alzheimer’s disease. Even though in the last years of her life illness had changed Nancy, I wanted to understand who she had been prior to the diagnoses.
I immediately knew this painting was going to be about their relationship. From the pictures of Nancy that Lauren shared with me I could tell how fun and fabulous she was. Lauren also bravely shared notes that her mother had written to her. These messages shed light into the love that was present in their relationship. For the painting, I knew I wanted to incorporate both a photo of them, along with a message that Nancy had written Lauren.
The title, “Honoring Nancy,” is about how we can pay respect and remember those we have lost through our daily lives. The message written throughout the painting is a reminder for Lauren of the kind of life that Nacy would want for her. A life full of joy, dance, laughter, and singing. A life where Lauren is surrounded by those who love her. The photo seen in the painting is a depiction of Lauren and Nancy’s close connection, and the orchids are a representation of Nancy’s favorite flower and the bouquet that Nancy designed for Lauren’s wedding day.