Celebrate Imagination

In early 2001, Don Bertram discovered a talent that he now shares with the cancer patients at Texas Children’s Hospital. Inspired by the paintings and literature of Clive Barker, works of Paul McCartney, and various early 20 th century illustrators, he began his creative journey. After receiving an assortment of oil paints for Christmas, he began producing fantasy artwork full of celestial objects, fat fish, blue people, and colorful cats.

Being self taught he never dreamed that he would paint for anyone except himself. When he was recognized and exhibited in a Houston gallery he decided that he had been truly blessed and decided to contribute proceeds from his art to a charity that used art as a healing tool. He decided to work with the “Arts in Medicine” program at Texas Children’s Hospital.

 “Once a month I visit the hospital to spend time with the children. These children have more to cope with than we can imagine. When they arrive for their doctors’ visits, I ask them to join me in a separate area of the waiting room for a little artistic magic. Once there I get them to use their imagination (which is very natural) to divert their attention away from their health issues. Using simple subjects and bright colors, I am almost always successful. I have found that this not only helps the children but also their parents and siblings. This is extremely rewarding and quite often I get to see that light shine in their little faces that lets me know that my art has influenced them in a positive way”

When considering a purchase, please feel good to know that at least 50% of the proceeds goes to the children and the rest to the artist to help him spread the word about the program, set up at art shows, and buy supplies.

 Don can be contacted at don@luna7.com for any information regarding purchasing his art or for information regarding the children’s program.

 “I would like to dedicate my program “Celebrate Imagination” to the creative spirit in all of us…especially the kids at Texas Children’s Hospital… and also to Clive Barker, who through his art, helped to awaken the creative spirit in me”

Don Bertram

Original Art

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