Beads of Courage: A Shining BrightSpot

There were three studios I wanted to see (at a minimum) this weekend as part of Tucson's Open Studio:  The Sculpture Garden at Metalworks Gallery, Beads of Courage Studio (both at 3230 N. Dodge Blvd.) and the Clay Co-op (just north).  I bought three nice clay pieces, met the artist of the Garden (and told him that he might want to market some of his pieces as "Games of Thrones" icons) and spent some time at the Beads of Courage Studio.  Mark bought two Courage bracelets, one for himself and one for a friend recently diagnosed with cancer.  Whether a person is 8 or 80, a diagnosis of cancer and other serious illnesses takes courage to face.  Here are four photos with descriptions (from Beads of Courage handouts) to help tell their story.

 

Beads of Courage in Tucson is the "international" office of an effort that supports over 15,000 children in the U.S., New Zealand and Japan.  Through their Arts in Medicine program, the program helps children with cancer and other serious illness.  The salesperson explained "there is a bead for chemotherapy, for radiation, for heart surgery...."  In addition, many bead artists (including those from Tucson and the Sonoran Glass Academy) have incredible handmade beads for sale.  Here is a sample from just two of the many artists.  Can you find the tiny "cupcake" in the center of one of the beads?

 

 

I am amazed at the intricate designs.

 

 

They have a "bead bar" for parties where kids and adults can pick their beads and make a necklace, bracelet, earrings.  They also have special events such as on Mother's Day, May 11.  Volunteers are also welcome.

 

 

 

To find out more information about Beads of Courage, go to www.BeadsofCourage.org .