Artists Facing Cancer by Making Art

Each of the three films in this collection documents an artist’s use of painting as they face their cancer diagnoses. The first, “Appointment with the Wise Old Dog”, is introduced by musician Yo-Yo Ma, and chronicles the cancer journey of David Blum, noted symphony conductor. Viewers witness Blum’s spiritual path as he paints his dreams, and observe how his art ultimately transforms his view of death.  The background of symphonic music provides a soothing setting for this highly personal and beautifully done film. The second, “Healing through Art,” documents the cancer journey of artist Darcy Lynn, as she paints her way through treatment for Lymphoma.  Darcy Lynn’s artwork becomes the relational piece that connects her to her doctors and provides them with a deeper understanding of their patient. Art therapist Dr. Wendy Miller provides commentary about art therapy’s use in medical settings with cancer patients of all ages.  The third piece, a television program entitled “Cancer Comics,” is a short glimpse of art therapist Wende Heath. She tells about how she began creating water color cartoons on the Internet, using humor and levity as her way of coping with the very serious diagnosis of cancer.

Total Running Time: 1 hour, 7 minutes