“My experience with Portraits of Hope has been extremely gratifying. It has been heart-warming to witness the children in the hospital participate in an educational, socialization and self-expressive experience. The boys and girls increase in self-esteem is always evident. Many laugh and admit their amazement of what they had accomplished. The fact that their art would be seen by thousands makes them feel important. These youngsters come into the painting room in their gowns and pajamas, each one with a medical diagnosis. Due to their hospitalization, they are in a vulnerable state; yet the project brings them joy and proof of their existence. The creative aspect and the recognition that their art is valued has enormous healing benefits. I feel truly honored to have played a part in Portraits of Hope.”

Helen Landgarten, Founder of the Clinical Art Therapy Master’s degree program at Loyola Marymount University; pioneered art therapy in Western US; author of four text books translated into many languages; Professor Emeritus.