Newswise — HOUSTON - Spring is in bloom at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Children's Art Project (CAP). Its new product collection is filled with bright, creative and seasonal designs developed by pediatric and adolescent cancer patients.
The creativity behind each new design is the result of a cancer patient's idea. That patient then works with art instructors and volunteers to complete his or her design. Upon completion, the art is featured on a wide variety of gift items, with sale proceeds supporting patient and educational programs at MD Anderson.
"This spring's collection showcases new product categories, which allows us to display the children's artwork in different ways," said Shannan Murray, CAP's director. "Part of the preparation that goes into collections is finding innovative products that show the diversity of each child's design."
The collection of paisley-inspired artwork found on the "Fresh Paisley Phone Cover" ($35) and the "Fresh Paisley Weekly Planner Pad" ($15) represents a new shift to more brightly-colored paisley designs. Carrington, a longtime CAP artist, created this piece and is now attending Baylor University on CAP scholarship. Each year, CAP sales fund scholarships for more than 90 current and former pediatric cancer patients.
In addition, the "Lady Bug Flower Domino Necklace" ($28) is a new product, which features a spring flower with a ladybug perched on its stem. Its creator, Aidan, always had a keen eye for nature-related designs, especially those involving animals. The design is etched on one side of the domino piece, which hangs from a thin wire cord. Eight different domino designs are available.
Stationery has always been a CAP mainstay, and the "Bold Butterfly Sticky Pad" ($6) continues this tradition, but with a new twist. The artwork behind this piece was created to mesh with its overall theme, as the outside edges of the pad were designed in the shape of flower petals. The art was created by Joseph, a CAP designer, whose work is featured on more than ten products.
CAP's mission is to support young cancer patients and their families through the sale of products displaying their artwork. Funds generated each year allow children to participate in summer camps, scholarships, an annual rehabilitative ski trip to Utah and other patient-focused programs.
"Each new collection is one of the many ways that CAP makes life better for children with cancer," Murray said. "Sales generate important funds that ultimately provide MD Anderson patients with opportunities that support and enhance their development."
Houston shoppers can find items at area grocery stores and other retail establishments (stationery items only), the Children's Art Project Boutique in the Uptown Park Shopping Center and at all four MD Anderson gift shops. Products are also available online at www.childrensart.org or by calling (800) 231-1580 to place an order or receive a free catalogue.
About MD AndersonThe University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston ranks as one of the world's most respected centers focused on cancer patient care, research, education and prevention. MD Anderson is one of only 40 comprehensive cancer centers designated by the National Cancer Institute. For seven of the past nine years, including 2010, MD Anderson has ranked No. 1 in cancer care in "America's Best Hospitals," a survey published annually in U.S. News & World Report.
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