Flip through for a look at this year's patient artists and their work.
On behalf of the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab family, I am honored to welcome you to the 21 st annual Art in Motion. At Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, the first-ever “translational” research rehabilitation hospital, we treat adults and children with the most severe, complex conditions — from traumatic brain and spinal cord injury to stroke, amputation and cancer-related impairment. Our unique model enables our patients to have access to the brightest minds, the latest research and the best opportunity for recovery in an atmosphere of possibility. In addition to caring for patients, we also help them return to full lives. To achieve this goal, we offer a variety of programs and services designed to enhance the quality of life for individuals of all abilities. Programs like art therapy and therapeutic recreation promote physical movement and emotional well- being, empowering participants to increase their function and independence. Although these programs are critical for advancing the healing journey for many individuals, they are not covered by insurance. Your generosity tonight helps make these programs possible, and a portion of proceeds from art sales also goes to our patient artists. As you browse the galleries, please take a moment to read about these artists and the transformative power of art therapy. Tonight’s extraordinary event — and the vital funding we generate this evening — would not be possible without … • The Associate Board Art in Motion Committee, spearheaded by co-chairs Dianne Datu and Caroline Dolan, who worked tirelessly to plan and promote this event. • Our patient artists, whose creativity, passion and talent are instrumental to Art in Motion’s success. • Our recreational therapists, who inspire our patients each day. • YOU — thank you for attending and bidding! Through your kindness and generosity, we can treat the whole person — body, mind and spirit. With heartfelt gratitude,
Laura Ferrio, MBA, MSN, RN, CRRN, NEA-BC Senior Vice President, Chief Operating Officer President, Keystone Board
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Our Associate Board is a group of emerging business and civic leaders who are committed to raising funds, increasing awareness and contributing to the ongoing success of Shirley Ryan AbilityLab. Through collaboration, persistence and friendship, the Associate Board Art in Motion Committee masterfully plans each year’s event. Thanks to their many efforts, we can experience another vibrant event and offer art therapy and other vital programs to a growing number of patients and members of the community.
Kwasi Amankwah ...........................4 Rocky Ayi ...........................5 James Bilderback ...........................6 Maria Bonokollie ...........................7 Diondai Brown-Whitfield ...........................8 Clare Burke ...........................9 Kyle Cornille ...........................10 Dennis Coughlin ...........................11 Charles Crawford ...........................12 Valerie Ewing ...........................13 Jaya Fever ...........................14 Ruth Fingerman ...........................15
Co-chairs Dianne Datu Caroline Dolan
Committee Chairs Alison Cerny & Alexandra Potter (Marketing) Evan Christiansen (Sponsorship)
Dianne Datu (Logistics) Joseph Morgan (Raffle)
Larry Garcia ...........................16 Ashley Green ...........................17 Tobi Heekin ...........................18 Heidi Hollis ...........................19 Ayo Maat ...........................20
Committee Ellen Bozek Clare Burke Carly Carynski Meg Chrisman Dennis Connolly
Roger Jordan Kim Nelson Jenna Nommensen Ari Rakic Hilary Sun
Jennifer Fernandez Scott Gregus Kirsten Hair Stephen Hiatt-Leonard Kevin Hinders
Trisha Tesmer Anthony Tiberi
Phillippe Ondo ...........................21 Mariam Paré ...........................22 Tom Perkowitz ...........................23 DeMarcus Purham ...........................24 Genevieve Ramos ...........................25 Sheila Schaeffer-Hirsh ...........................26 Latya Smith-Purvis ...........................27 Heather Kadlec Shack ...........................28
About Art in Motion Benefiting Shirley Ryan AbilityLab
This event showcases artwork created by current and former Shirley Ryan AbilityLab patients. Our goal is to raise awareness of the important role that the art therapy and therapeutic recreation programs play in the healing process. All of the funds raised from this event help support our therapeutic recreation programs and our artists. Shirley Ryan AbilityLab understands that most of the emotional recovery takes place after inpatient care — returning to beloved activities or exploring new ones. Because we treat the whole person, we have created a model of care that not only helps patients and community members restore as much of a function (ability) as possible, but also helps them return to the lives they love. These programs are unique and contribute greatly to healing, but most are not covered by insurance.
Odessa Straub ...........................29 Savastiana Valle ...........................30 Lauren Wilke ...........................31 2024 Special Exhibit: Momentum ...........................32
Please note: All artist biographies are written in their own words.
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Rocky Ayi loves everything about space, a passion that is often reflected in his work. In 2016, while on vacation in Nevada, he was involved in a head-on auto collision. He sustained a traumatic brain injury, and he chose Shirley Ryan AbilityLab for rehabilitation. In therapy, he learned to walk and speak again, but he also realized that he had lost grip strength in his dominant right hand. Though he had never tried painting before, he has discovered that creating art is relaxing and helps him cope with how much his life has changed. In addition to what he’s accomplished in art therapy, he has also learned many artistic skills from his brother-in-law, who is also an artist. Rocky enjoys coming up with different ideas, and hopes the viewer can feel a part of his soul when viewing his art. He enjoys painting with acrylic and oil, and is inspired by what he feels and what goes on in his life.
Kwasi Amankwah came to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in 2012 after having a stroke. Brainstem bleeding led to a loss of function on the right side of his body. After extensive rehabilitation, he regained his lost abilities and was able to walk out of the hospital without using a cane. Art has always been a part of Kwasi’s life, and he uses it as an escape that allows him to center himself. He has always been a visual person and likes to find inspiration in all he sees. This inclination leads him to blend styles, thus creating something with each piece that is uniquely his own. For this exhibit, Kwasi wanted to diverge from digital painting and return to his artistic beginnings — painting on canvas. When he is not making art, he enjoys spending time with his wife and two boys. He also enjoys playing hockey and basketball. Today, he lives by the motto, “Never give up.”
NASA 16”x20”
WE’RE HERE 30”x24”
TRI-VISION 36”x40”
HOLLYWOOD 30”x24”
Lost & Found 30”x10”
Miss You 30”x10”
ALIEN 20”x16”
STAIRWAY TO HEAVEN 36”x24”
THE ARRIVAL 20”x16”
THE FIFTH 20”x24”
Future 24”x18”
HOTEL CALIFORNIA 16”x20”
ROVER 20”x16”
Happy 10”x10”
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Maria Bonokollie describes her artwork as spontaneous. She likes to work abstractly, focusing on different aspects of life from an “in-the-moment” viewpoint. After she sustained a brachial plexus injury, art therapy at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab helped Maria regain motor function on her left side. Her artwork is meant to be fun and energetic and create a sense of wonder. Maria hopes her artwork inspires people to go out and do something for the world. In her free time, she enjoys crafting, researching and volunteering her time to help others who may have similar challenges.
James Bilderback came to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in June 2022 following a spinal cord abscess and surgery that left him paralyzed from the waist down. Although he was given a 20% chance of survival from the surgery, James not only survived his injuries, but was on his feet again walking after 28 days. James is eternally grateful for the care and hard work of every staff member at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab. Throughout his hospital stay, James made art in his room as gifts for his therapists and nurses. James lives by the sayings: “Never give up” and “Don’t let your current situation determine your final destination.”
Hidden Suns 8”x10”
Hidden Eye 8”x10”
Dancing in the Light 20”x16”
Modern Mona 13.5”x10.5”
Infinity and Beyond 20”x20”
Girl with Pearl Earring in Retrospect Reproduction 13.5”x10.5”
Morning Hen 14”x11”
Magic Potion 2 11”x14”
Inside My Mind 1 20”x16”
Flowing 10”x8”
Chaos is Creation 8”x10”
Magic Potion 1 11”x14”
Morning Rooster 14”x11”
Eyes Within 8”x10”
Circles and Swirls 8”x10”
Inside My Mind 2 20”x16”
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Clare Burke is a practicing art therapist, a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor at the Institute for Therapy through the Arts in Evanston. In 2020, Clare began experiencing widespread chronic pain throughout her whole body. When the pain did not subside, she was referred to the Pain Management Program at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab. The program helped Clare reconnect with herself and other individuals suffering from chronic pain. Creating art has always been an extremely therapeutic experience for Clare. Her preferred creative medium is to work with hand-cut paper collage. She primarily utilizes magazines in her collage work, specifically National Geographic, fashion magazines and, lately, vintage Women’s Day and Life magazines from the 1960s and 1970s. She gravitates towards images of nature, outer space and empowered female characters. To Clare, creating art is a way to both connect with others and reconnect with herself.
I live with stage-four heart failure. In November 2023, I came to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab for rehabilitation following my second heart pump implant. That was when I was introduced to art therapy. Art and music keep me grounded and assist me when I begin to experience unpleasant memories. It makes me more relaxed. Art therapy is helping me to heal. I’m very spiritual. Therefore, my creative work is guided by the spirit of God. I use various medium including fabrics, acrylics, wood, various paints, crochet and silk flowers. We are all here for a breath. It’s up to each of us to make the best of it, regardless of our circumstances. Thank you for appreciating my style as an artist.
Wade Watkins Family Tree 8”x10”
Faith 8”x10”
Heartscape 8.5”x10.5”
Reboot 8”x10”
Christmas 10”x8”
My Tees Matter 8”x10”
Legacy 10”x8”
Centered 11”x11”
Juneteenth Peace Walk 8”x10”
Juneteenth Free 10”x8”
Coquina Sunrise 10.75”x8.75”
Heart Relief 10”x8”
Autumn on Canvas 8”x10”
Gratitude 8”x10”
Nature’s Balance 11”x5.75”
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Dennis Coughlin came to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab after sustaining a spinal cord injury in 2019. Art therapy has given Dennis an outlet during his healing process. When he is not creating art, Dennis enjoys exploring the woods and collecting coins and paper money. He lives by the sayings: “pain is temporary” and “just keep trying.”
Kyle Cornille came to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in July 2021 after suffering a brainstem stroke that caused locked-in syndrome. Although his cognitive abilities were completely intact, Kyle couldn’t speak or move. After completing a rigorous course of rehabilitation, Kyle regained the ability to walk, talk and use his hands. The art therapy and therapeutic recreation programs were vital to his recovery. After moving to North Carolina to be closer to family, Kyle continues to create art. His creative practice is inspired by his experience at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab. Kyle enjoys experimenting with new styles and learning new techniques. With each completed project, he learns a new skill. Kyle remains dedicated to outpatient therapy, but makes a point to find time for leisure. In his spare time Kyle enjoys adaptive sports, reading, learning new art methods, working out and cooking.
Watermelon Crayons 6”x6”x4”
Pumpkin from the Sun 6.75”x6”
White on Black 24”x12”
Country Symbol (Ukraine) 16”x8”
School Colors (N.U.) 14”x18”
Strawberry 5.5”x5.5”
A Study of Citrus 5.5”x5.5”
Full Solar Eclipse 11”x14”
Home 16”x20”
Birds at Sea 12”x25”
A Printing of Pear 5.5”x5.5”
Frilly Pineapple 8.5”x5.5”
Neon Cherry 6.25”x6.25”
Country Colors (Erie) 8”x24”
My High Flying Buddy 7”x14”
Glass Apple 6”x6”
A Controversy of Fruit 5.5”x5.5”
A Painting of Fruit 18”x18”
Color Palette 12”x25”
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My name is Valerie Juliette Ewing, and I am a self-taught artist. As far back as I can remember, art has always been my passion and favorite form of communication. I can do art when I can’t do anything else. Following a series of incidents, I found myself challenged with the tragic trauma of having to recuperate from being immobile, to a wheelchair, to a walker and now a cane. Thanks to various forms of therapy, I have successfully returned to a productive way of life. Then came the unforeseeable diagnosis of having Parkinson’s disease. Now having uncontrollable tremors, I have had to rethink the way I am doing my art. With a combination of therapy and treatment, I continue to pursue my career as an artist. This series is a combination of acrylic paint and black India ink. They are block prints of familiar shapes with the clashing of abstract images. The collision of colors creates a static image. I firmly believe that it has been my Buddhist practice of chanting Nam- Myoho-Renge-Kyo, that I have been able to make the impossible possible. Art Therapy is a gift that lets me speak my heart and mind.
Charles Crawford had a stroke in 2016 that caused expressive aphasia. After multiple surgeries, he started therapy at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab. Charles was able to get back to creating art by using his left (non-dominant) hand. His experience of “re-finding” art is a happy one and provided great therapy. Thanks to his previous experience with drawing, painting and martial arts, Charles was able to remain disciplined and focused through his healing process. Before his stroke, Charles was an executive chef and had opened two restaurants. After that, he opened his own art gallery and custom framing business. He also taught art history, visual arts, martial arts and culinary arts at the high-school level. Thanks to therapy at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Charles is gradually advancing all of his abilities.
Untitled No. 9 9”x12”
Untitled No. 7 9”x12”
Recurvirostridae Bird 16”x20”
Alaska 20”x16”
Volcano 16”x20”
Untitled No. 5 12”x9”
Untitled No. 4 12”x9”
Free 20”x16”
Bankra Baskets 16”x20”
Northern Skys 16”x20”
Tulip 20”x16”
Untitled No. 3 12”x9”
Untitled No. 2 12”x9”
Untitled 16”x20”
Untitled No. 10 9”x12”
Mail 20”x16”
Northern Lights 18”x22”
Untitled No. 8 9”x12”
Untitled No. 6 9”x12”
Untitled No. 1 12”x9”
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Ruth has been a resident of Skokie since 1971, raising her three children with her husband of 56 years. Her work has been exhibited at numerous art fairs, the Evanston Art Center, Emily Oaks Nature Center and the former Kaplan JCC. Ruth grew up in Chicago and graduated from the School of the Art Institute and the University of Chicago, earning her Bachelor’s of Art in Education in 1967. She taught art in Evanston and later earned her Master’s of Education while teaching at Gale Academy in Chicago. Ruth retired from teaching in 2005 and now enjoys exercising, painting, and spending time with friends and family.
I was in a car accident in December 2022, which resulted in a severe brain injury. I came to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab for inpatient care in a disordered state of consciousness. I was an artist before my accident and planned to pursue being an art teacher in college. I participated in art therapy during my rehabilitation. Art therapy helped me to regain some of my creative processes and helped me begin to regain use of my right hand. Art is still difficult for me because it is not the same as it used to be. I have hope that the more I practice and do art, it will come back. Additionally, I do music therapy with my high school music teacher and try to continue to create art. I love to listen to music, make coffee, and spend time with my family and friends. I enjoy making art by drawing or painting. I use acrylic or watercolor paints and graphite or colored pencils. I usually draw or paint in my room while listening to music, a TV show or podcast.
The Shape of Peace 10.5”x13.5”
Recovery 30”x30”
Seasons 11”x14”
Jetty Vista No. 2 10.5”x13.5”
Strength 13.5”x10.5”
Jewelry box 4.5”x12.5”x8”
Sunny Storm 11”x14”
Special Needs 12”x10”
Girl in the Field 8.5” x 2.25
Feeling Good 13”x10.5”
Celebration 30”x30”
No Bad Days 10” x 6.5”
Rehabilitation 10.5”x13.5”
Jellybean Rain 14”x11”
Bikini Bottom 14”x11”
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I believe art is the way to the soul and that it is an amazing outlet for those who can’t always find the words. I experienced a spinal cord injury as a result of a spinal mass and multiple surgeries. I am currently a patient at Streeterville DayRehab, learning to manage getting around in the world with a higher thoracic spinal cord injury, as well as trying to get back to my very active competitive sport lifestyle. Art therapy gave me an outlet to express myself and escape from the stressful reality that had become my life. It gave me something to do and distracted me from my pain. It allowed me that piece of normalcy as I make art, tumblers and shirts at home. It allowed me to feel like I still had this one thing in my life that was consistent. I love experimenting with all types of art products and creating a variety of different pieces. Most of my artwork is motivational, inspirational and fun. A lot of my pieces contain nature.
Larry Garcia graduated from Northwestern University in 1976. In 2011, he was in an accident that resulted in a C5 incomplete spinal cord injury. He discovered painting with watercolors during the Art Therapy Program at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab. He enjoys experimenting with new techniques and media, and is currently using acrylics — for bolder color and effects — to express what he wants to convey in his work. Larry finds painting a form of expression that he would not otherwise have explored were it not for his inpatient art therapy.
#100 11”x14”
warm inspiration 12”x9”
Squares 14”x11”
the best view 36”x24”
Self Portrait 14”x11”
kaliyah (strong warrior) 10”x10”
Red Woman 14”x11”
inspiration planted
Oasis 5.5”x8.5”
#600b 36”x24”
feather of hope 10”x10”
a warrior’s best friend 24”x36”
#800 36”x24”
coffee buzz
Blue Woman 14”x11”
#154 11”x14”
broken isn’t always broken
600A 36”x24”
always rising 15.5”x11.5”
always looking up 10”x10”
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Heidi Hollis is an author, podcaster, cartoonist, lecturer, 3D artist and frequent television guest — all on topics of mystery. She is the host of “Dark Becomes Light” on Coast to Coast AM of iHeartRadio, where she speaks about various topics on everything from Bigfoot to UFOs. She has also been featured on television programs like Ancient Aliens, Strange Evidence, The Proof is Out There, Mysteries Decoded, Beyond Belief and many more. “I’ve always found creating art to be healing. Being an occupational therapist myself, I feel art therapy helps the body, mind and soul — it’s essential during rehabilitation!” In her artwork, Hollis often depicts the Bigfoot character named Hog. He comes from her Webcomic “The Outlanders,” that’s been read by millions.
Tobi Craiger Heekin is a proud Iowa girl who grew up in Des Moines. Following graduation from the University of Iowa, she moved to Chicago. In 2009, Tobi and her daughter were in a serious car accident. Fortunately, her daughter was not injured, but Tobi sustained a spinal cord injury that resulted in paralysis from the waist down. She spent the next 18 months tackling rehabilitation at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in order to regain strength and mobility. She continues therapy as an outpatient. Tobi participated in the Art Therapy Program at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab with the assumption that it would improve her dexterity. She quickly discovered, however, that it helped with much more. Creating art enabled her to release and express her emotions and feelings on paper — whether joyful, sad, frustrated or courageous. She now looks at her work and sees the empowerment and beauty that thrive inside her. Today, Tobi lives a life of gratitude for her many wonderful blessings.
Scary Bigfoot 3D (Light Purple on Lime Green) 16”x16”
Scary Bigfoot 3D (Bright Red on Light Purple) 16”x16”
Window of Opportunity 24”x20”
Unicorn 36.5”x25.5”
Run Forrest! 20”x24”
Scary Bigfoot 3D (Sky Blue on Bright Pink) 20”x16”
Scary Bigfoot 3D (Bright Red on Birchwood Panel) • 16”x12”
Swimming Up Stream 23”x19.5”
Ojos 18”x24”
Bigfoot Crossing (Sky Blue on Eggplant) • 20”x16”
Bigfoot Crossing (Eggplant on Sky Blue) 20”x16”
Midnight Blues 12” diameter each (2)
Dahlia 20”x20”
Scary Bigfoot 3D (Bright Blue on Bright Orange) • 20”x16”
Scary Bigfoot 3D (Bright Blue on Birchwood Panel) • 20”x16”
Black Knight 20”x20”
Bigfoot Crossing (Light Green on Bright Red) • 20”x16”
String Theory 21”x31”
Bigfoot Crossing (Bright Yellow on Bright Blue) • 20”x16”
Soft Luxury 18”x24”
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Ayo Maat has been a patient at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab for more than 25 years and has received various types of therapy within the hospital. She uses art therapy to help mute pain and express deep feelings. She also uses art to face challenges in other areas of her life. Ayo has learned how to live in peace and harmony in a world filled with chaos by turning to her creativity. Her art flows from a greater appreciation of life and a perpetual need to see the divine, create harmony and destroy disharmony, to love her life and soul, no matter the circumstances. She knows that art may not be a cure for poverty, pain and suffering, but it certainly helps. Ayo loves multimedia presentations and enjoys mixing pastels with color pens. Until she regained use of her hands, she could not draw, paint, work with clay or make jewelry. Now she can — and does!
I am a high-school student from Woodbridge, Virginia. I am a current patient and came to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab following a traumatic spinal cord injury. I love listening to music, especially hip-hop (drill and trap). I like basketball and football. And I grew up in a Christian family and have always been involved with the church. I enjoy looking at nature and creating nature-based abstract art. My medium is painting with watercolor and acrylic paint. Painting is pretty new to me, but I am hoping to expand my journey in creativity through a new art tool. Art has helped me to find a reason to be excited. Painting helped me stabilize my emotions during my rehabilitation and find peace. It has changed my perspective in what I can do and what I can express through creative arts.
Transition Beneath the Surface 11”x14”
Violated: Cultural Mascara 13.5” x 12.5”
Untitled No. 4 9”x12”
Romancing the Goldstone 16”x20”
Crystals Unmasked 20”x16”
Managing the Blues 10.5”x13.5”
Untitled No. 3 9”x12”
Crimson in the Midst 11”x14”
Contemplating New Life: 3 Viewpoints 7”x5” each (2)
Untitled No. 1 9”x12”
Celebrate Higher Frequency • 11”x14”
Anatomy of A Toothache 11”x14”
Autumn Full Blown 16”x12”
Untitled No. 2 8.5”x11”
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Mariam Paré is a local artist who paints using her mouth to hold the brush. At 20, she was shot in the back by an unknown assailant, an injury that resulted in quadriplegia. Despite losing the use of her hands, she continues to develop herself as an artist and mouth painter. Now 22 years later, she is a visual artist and designer. She is a member of Mouth & Foot Painting Artists (MFPA) and is celebrated for her colorful portraits and multimedia work that incorporate gun violence and disability awareness. Her paintings and other works have been exhibited worldwide and in the private collections of notable actors. Currently, Mariam continues to paint prolifically in her home studio in Chicago, dividing her artistic output between figurative, portrait and semi-surreal motifs.
Tom Perkowitz had a life-changing stroke in 2015. Before leaving the business world to become a professional artist, he was director of marketing for Chicagoland’s largest window fashions company. He loves to paint on a large scale and was thus drawn to murals. He even painted murals in his kids’ bedrooms and a hallway in their school. Since his stroke, his passion for painting on a large scale has been fortuitous, necessary even, as his sight has not been fully restored. He says that art therapy kept him sane during his healing process — not one to sit still, he would often paint between therapies. During his stay at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, his medical staff would come to watch him paint in his room. Usually painting with oil paints, Tom’s style straddles Impressionism and Realism, often in the same piece.
Cougar 18”x24”
Tyrannosaurus Rex 36”x36”
Imaginary Landscape No. 4 12”x16”
Triceratops 48”x36”
Still Life with Apples 16”x20”
Polar Bears 36”x48”
Imaginary Landscape No. 3 12”x16”
Xiphactinus Audax Triptych 16”x20” each
Sloth Love 20”x16”
Feathered Dinosaurs Tetraptych 12”x12” each
Horned Owl 24”x18”
Croatian Cobble Stone Street 36”x36”
Imaginary Landscape No. 1 12”x9”
Imaginary Landscape No. 2 11”x14”
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I was born and raised in Chicago. My passion for creating cityscapes started at the age of 17 at Gallery 37 Center for the Arts. I graduated from Leo High School in 2005 and attended Parsons School of Design in New York from 2005 to 2006. I’ve been creating detailed cityscape artwork for more than 15 years. I am also the Artist in a Box — a public performance art showcasing me inside a plexiglass box while I am creating the detailed cityscape around me with paint markers on each panel of the box. My left foot was crushed and amputated after an unfortunate work accident. Art therapy helped me utilize creative projects to heal mentally from frustration and emotional stress during my inpatient rehabilitation. I specialize in creating detailed cityscapes with various materials against multicolored backgrounds. My works are produced
In 2011, Genevieve Nutley Ramos was in a life-altering car accident that affected her ability to speak and left her physically challenged. After her three- month stay at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, she found new abilities and hope for life. She describes the impact that art therapy made on her as profound. Her whole identity is centered on being an artist and living a life of positivity, spirituality and healing. She says finding her talent to create art has given her a sustainable healing practice that she will use for the rest of her life. She also credits this practice with revealing her purpose in the world. Genevieve’s artwork is inspired by the beauty of the world, including positivity and love. Her art incorporates her attraction to bright colors and nature, along with themes of femininity. She tries to evoke beauty and emotion that viewers can feel and wants them to appreciate her voice through her visual creativity. Genevieve feels that it’s her job to share the beauty she sees in others and the world through her art.
Be Still Life 16”x20”
Untitled 12”x12”
City Bei Nature: Process of 345 E Superior Street* 3”x3”
City Bei Nature: Process of 355 E Erie Street* 4”x4”
mainly with acrylic paint markers, plexiglass, epoxy resin, plywood, threaded canvas, sugar paper and colored pencils.
Life is an unforeseen journey, but love and support help navigate your spiritual path. *Please note: These pieces are sold together as one collection.
Acceso 24”x24”
City Bei Nature: Brick* 1 1/2”x1 1/2”
Wave 24”x24”
City Bei Nature: Box* 1 1/2”x1 1/2”
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I am a retired librarian and elementary school teacher. I love to learn and have taken classes in book and box making, needle arts, metalsmithing, enameling and calligraphy. I like to use what I have learned to challenge myself to combine multiple mediums in my art. I am usually working on multiple pieces so I can step back and let my art tell me what to do next. I use leather, paper, cloth, thread, metal, paint, ink and enamel. I like the challenge of combining more than one technique and multiple materials in the same art piece. I came to Shirley Ryan AbilityLab for inpatient rehabilitation after spine surgery to replace a degenerated disk. I am so grateful to everyone ... the doctors, nurses, PCTs, therapists, art therapist, chaplain, housekeepers and food service team members. Everyone was kind, patient and encouraging. I feel that I made great progress because of their holistic approach to treatment. I have been making art since I could hold a needle. I’ve been on a creative journey over many years. There have been some detours, but no roadblocks. My art shows what I’ve learned and who I am.
I’m into all kinds of art. I love working with charcoal. It’s something about the messiness of charcoal that I love. I really like abstract art, and I’m learning more about all different art styles. In 2013, I first started noticing symptoms of foot drop after I almost fell down the stairs. I went to my doctor and I did not get answers until 2020. I had a bony growth that was protruding into my spinal cord. I first stayed at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in 2021 following surgery. That’s when I was first introduced to art therapy. I was frustrated and scared, because it was the first time that I had such a major surgery and I couldn’t walk after. The art therapist had me start by drawing a picture. It was my first time drawing in years. It let me know that, no matter what my situation is, I could do it. I’ve learned to draw whatever comes to your mind. Whatever you want to vent or to release. I learned to stop letting my mind get the best of me. I am excited to learn more about what else I can do. I can only go up from here. I’m honored to be a part of Art in Motion. “We need joy as we need air. We need love as we need water. We need each other as we need the earth we share.” — Dr. Maya Angelou
Hand Sewn Leather Journal with Embroidered Stars 7.5”x 5”x1”
Hand Sewn Tan and Blue Journal 7.5”x 5”x1”
Through the looking glass 24”x18”
I like Picasso 24”x18”
Leaf Pendant 2”x2.75”
Triangle Earrings 2.375”x .5”
Poppy Book Necklace 1.875”x1”x.375”
The Waterfall 10”x10”
Green and Black Earrings 1.5”x .625”
Removing the makeup 10”x30”
Tigers Eye Pendant 1.25”x1”
Black Fabric Covered Journal with Window and Exposed Spine Sewing 7.5”x4.75”x1”
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I am a professional artist with a BFA from Cooper Union. My work has been exhibited around the world. I was a patient at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab in February 2023 after I experienced sudden and dramatic neurological symptoms which affected my speech, cognition and movement. Art therapy gave me focused time to work through my symptoms and helped me process without being alone. Ironically, prior to my diagnosis, I worked as a professional caregiver in addition to being a professional artist. Over the years, I have explored the role of caregiving in my life through art, and this inspires the way that I work. I am a sculptor and painter who works in mixed media, particularly with found objects. This group of paintings is acrylic and ink on paper. Because I have strongly identified as a person who gives care, it has been challenging to confront those perceived roles of giver and receiver in myself since my diagnosis. Now, I am working through this in my creative practice.
Heather Kadlec Shack had a severe ischemic stroke in 2011. She discovered watercolor painting as part of her recovery therapy and has since become a talented artist with a unique perspective. After losing her dominant right hand, she learned to paint left- handed. Heather’s stroke caused aphasia, which limited her ability to speak, read and write, and her art has become a means for her to express herself. Heather participated in her first art show in 2013. She launched her first business in 2015, first selling her original artwork, then fine art prints and greeting cards under HMK Watercolors. In 2019, HMK Living was launched to include clothing and accessories designed from Heather’s art. Heather is currently residing in Barcelona, Spain, with her husband, Jonathan. Since their move in May 2022, Heather has been inspired by the history, culture and people of Spain, and all her latest paintings reflect this. A portion of HMK Watercolors sales is donated to the Retreat & Refresh Stroke Camp, a program close to Heather’s heart that helps survivors of strokes and their caregivers improve their quality of life.
Meatshield in Muck 9”x12”
Water Lilies 22”x29”
White Tulip 16”x20”
What Sticks Floating 12”x9”
Vivid Blooms 20”x16”
Study of Pink Flower 20”x16”
Grasp on Squish 12”x9”
Explosive happy Satire 9”x8”
Flower Patch 4 20”x16”
Flower Collection 2 20”x16”
Purple Passion 14”x11”
False Understatement and Meat Comfort • 7”x5” each (2)
Settling Cloudy Dilution and Settling Positive Pressure • 7”x5” each (2)
Drooping Daisies 14”x11”
Psychedelic Spray 11”x13.5”
Florals 3 20”x16”
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My art is my heart, it is who I am, and is one of the reasons I fight to physically keep moving. My art gives freedom with simple tools, primarily my pencils and paper along with several types of erasers. Even though I do add to my drawings with other materials, the simple pencil and eraser have adapted to my condition, art makes me feel normal. Even though my ability to move is becoming more limited, I can continue to learn more about how to draw and move forward. My imagination has no limitations. On bad days, art gives me a reason to get up and move and push myself physically. Art is my voice to express my feelings, my challenges and express who I am. I also like to think there is a piece of myself that will always live on someday. challenges with my hands the best. Art gives me purpose. When facing a degenerative neurological medical Everyone has as artist within themselves and the art therapist at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab introduced me to my artist. The time I spent at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab gave me more help than I can express in only words. It was hope for me. “Life is never made unbearable by circumstances, but only by lack of meaning and purpose“– Viktor Frankl
Savi Valle became a patient at Shirley Ryan AbilityLab after being diagnosed with Guillian-Barré Syndrome. She had lost all sensation in her lower body and partial sensation in her upper extremities. With the help of her therapists, she regained a baseline of ability and relearned to eat, move and walk. Art therapy made an enormous impact on her healing process. For a long time, she could not feed herself, let alone grip any object for very long. Through art therapy, she regained some gross and fine motor skills. Savi now says that creating art makes her feel powerful in body and movement, and that it helps her regain control. She likes to experiment with non-representational and abstract work — work which is always evolving. Savi graduated from Illinois State University with a degree in art education in 2022. She is currently a K-8 art teacher for Chicago Public Schools.
Trying to perfect the idea of a clone 14”x14”
Who chooses? 17”x11”
Seeds 17”x11”
the best thing about hospitals are windows V 37”x18”
IPIATMB/ IATMBIP 11”x14”
What tears 11”x17”
The Greenman waits 11”x17”
Fraternal Feelings 16”x20”
Meanings 11”x17”
Holding My Breath 20”x16”
Extension Right 8”x8” each (2)
Day After 17”x11”
Stories behind the masks 11”x14” each (2)
Relative Time 14”x11”
Always Smoke 14”x14”
Abstractions in Color Theory 24”x24”
Feeling Outside the Lines 20”x20”
Don’t crow 11”x17”
Next 11”x14”
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This year’s special exhibit for Art in Motion is themed “Momentum.” It reflects the lively nature of surging forward and embodies the relentless spirit of artistic expression beyond obstacles and challenges around us. Viewers may step into a world where art evolves into a dynamic force, pushing past limits, redefining possibilities and weaving a narrative of perseverance.
Momentum 6”x6” Philippe Ondo
Momentum 8”x8” Mariam Paré
Mojo Momentum 7”x5” Ayo Maat
Momentum 10.75”x10.75” Kyle Cornille
Rabbit 10”x10” Tom Perkowitz
Momentum 10”x12” Lauren Wilke
momentum 10”x10” Ashley Green
Momentum 6.5” x 4.4” Sheila Schaeffer-Hirsh
Momentum 10”x8” Latya Smith-Purvis
Momentum 10”x10” Dennis Coughlin
“Rock. Paper. Scissors” 8”x6” each (3) Tobi Heekin
Momentum 10.5”10.5” Heather Shack
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Momentum 10”x10” Heidi Hollis
MOMENTUM 10”x10” Rocky Ayi
Momentum 8”x10” Larry Garcia
Momentum 8”x10” James Bilderback
Momentum 10”x10” Valerie Ewing
Momentum 10.5” x 13.5” Charles Crawford
Momentum 10”x10” Savastiana Valle
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We are both delighted and grateful to you for participating in the 21 st Annual Art in Motion. We hope you come away with a sense of awe at the amazing creations of our current and former patients. Please know that the success of our work and this event rely on the support of our generous donors.
If you’d like to champion our mission and vision, please visit sralab.org/AIM-give or scan the QR code to make a gift.
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Art Expert Anonymous
Art Aficionado Wayne Andersen Breanne & Brian Littleton Irem Metin & William Ritchie Art Connoisseur Anonymous Dolan Family Foundation
Art Enthusiast
C. Brant Ahrens Robert Angevin Russ, Monica & Carly Carynski
Evan Christiansen, Jones Lang LaSalle The Fitzpatrick Group of Wells Fargo Goldman Ismail Tomaselli Brennan & Baum LLP Jenna Nommensen Susan & Bob Nommensen Jonathan M. Tingstad & Shannon Corbin, MD Tully & Associates
Friend of Art in Motion Julie Captain Keith & Laura Ferrio
Fifth Third Bank Florist & Hound GEM Realty Capital Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani, LLP Kirsten Ekdahl Hull & Kevin Hull Krusinski Construction Company Meredith McBride & Matt Meltzer Richard Melman Nancy Paridy & Steve Naughton Nicollette & Richard Roggeveen Nick Schaefer Mr. and Mrs. Dennis Schwartz & Family Taft Law Ryan & Jennifer Vilnius
Beverage Sponsor Constellation
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