Manchester Art Association exhibit promotes breast cancer awareness

Rockville artist Elle Fagan's torso, 'Cancer Free,' depicts the healthy eating choices which she said helped her overcome breast cancer. Photos by Martha Marteney.

“Everyone has a story,” said Christiane O’Brien, president of the Manchester Art Association, when talking about the MAA’s current exhibit for breast cancer awareness, “Paint the Ta Tas,” on exhibit at Manchester Memorial Hospital through the end of the year. “Art and healing go together,” added O’Brien. Many hospitals now feature art exhibits to promote this connection.

MAA utilized Facebook to put a call out to all artists to participate in the exhibit, which was meant to promote breast cancer awareness and celebrate those touched by cancer. Thirty-five plastic torsos, 10 of which are in the male form, were given to the artists to create their own message. Other art media, such as painting, photography and mixed media, are also included in the show.

“That’s what’s exciting,” said O’Brien. “They came form all over the place. This is appealing to a wide variety of people.” While many of the artists are MAA members, for others this was their first time learning about the Manchester Art Association.

Artist Elle Fagan wanted to let people know there are things individuals can do to prevent breast cancer. Participating in the show was a way for her to showcase how healthy eating and lifestyle changes helped her overcome breast cancer. After overcoming breast health issues in her 20s, Fagan maintained a healthy lifestyle until 10 years ago, when she suffered an injury and long-term disability. Then, two years ago, a lump was discovered in her breast. She had one month between the initial discovery and the surgery. “I detoxed, exercised and rested,” said Fagan. When she went back to the doctor, the viscose mass had disappeared. “That’s what breast cancer awareness is all about – taking control of the fear,” said Fagan.

Manchester resident Jeremy Jordan decided to participate in the Manchester Art Association’s “Paint the Ta Tas” exhibit in honor of his grandmother, a breast cancer survivor. “It’s a great cause – breast cancer awareness,” said the MAA member. His piece was untitled until he began describing his decision to fill the inside of the torso with the tree of life, using an apple to symbolize both a heart and Eve, the first woman. He named the piece, “Hope Springs Eternal.”

“Paint the Ta Tas” will be on exhibit through the end of the year at Manchester Memorial Hospital. The exhibit is located in the hallway near the main cafeteria. Several of the pieces are for sale, and a portion of the proceeds will be donated to Relay for Life of Manchester. There will be a reception for the exhibit on Thursday, Nov. 17, from 6 to 9 p.m.

The Manchester Art Association is in its 61st year, and has members from Manchester and the greater Manchester area. MAA will also be hosting a craft fair on Saturday, Oct. 29, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will be held inside the Great Path Academy's gymnasium at Manchester Community College. Admission is free. For more information on the Manchester Art Association, visit Facebook or the website manchesterart.org.