Foundation hosts exhibition to raise funds for cancer patients

As part of activities to mark the World Cancer Day, Heartwells Foundation has hosted art for cancer exhibition. The exhibition showcased paintings, sculptures and works from notable Nigerian artists who presented their artworks to raise funds for cancer survivors.

Part of the funds generated from the exhibition is geared towards the financial support and healthcare facilitation for cancer patients and survivors.

Contributing her works to the exhibition, Bertha Onyekachi displayed ‘Biological Clock,’ a piece that depicts a grown woman’s desire to express her ecstasies despite society’s dictates and expectations.

“Biological Clock showcases the frivolities and care-free attitude of a mature woman yearning to re-live her life and escape the realities of the moment even as age tick-tocks on her.

“The dictates of society do not dissuade her just as she clings tightly to a glass of red wine, sipping it ecstatically, while lounging in an armchair with outstretched legs in red heeled-shoes.

“The artwork tells of the expectations of society towards women who have crossed a certain age and are singled out as biological clock stereotypes. In the eyes of society, menopause has set in so the woman is not entitled to frivolous living,” she said.

Other notable artists whose works were displayed at the exhibition included, Juliet Ezenwa Maja Pearce, Bertha Onyekachi, Gerry Nnubia, Omoyeni Arogunmati, Gab Awusa, Emmanuel Isiuwe, Ebong Ekwere, Luke Osaro, Chris Ogiebo, Dare Adenuga, Taiye Erewele, Lucky Isaiah, Akanimoh Umoh and Godwin Adesoye.

Making the opening speech, the CEO of Heartwells Foundation, Mr Ogbonnaya Igbokwe, stated that early detection of cancer is key to preventing cancer and reduces chances of death caused by the inflammatory disease.

He said: “The main purpose of this event is to create an awareness regarding the prevention of breast cancer in Nigeria and Africa. It is also targeted at raising funds to help cancer patients.

“This event is a unique one as it remains a medium of creating awareness among the citizenry. It is different from other awareness programmes that we had in the past. It is a well-organised event with the attendance of supporters and participants nationwide,” Igbokwe emphasised.