The holidays are a time of love and of giving back, and it is in that spirit I announce my "Small Gems" sale. Every Christmas I choose a group of small paintings, priced specially for holiday gift-giving, and donate half the proceeds to a cause that is dear to my heart. I am thrilled to name Arts for Life as the beneficiary again this year. Arts for Life brings not only the visual arts, but also music and creative writing, to thousands of children in hospitals across North Carolina.
I have seen first hand how the arts can lift up young patients who are suffering serious illnesses. Years ago, I worked on art projects with first grader Caroline Wofford, during her battle with leukemia. From this experience, I know how hard it is on kids and their families to endure long hospitalizations, and how art can provide a bright spot in a dark time. I can't say it better than AFL's own logo: "Inspiring Courage through Creativity".