The AIM signature event is the recreation of Grand Master paintings by adult cancer patients while they receive treatment at Feist-Weiller Cancer Center. Painting transports patients to a whole new dimension of comfort while they receive treatment. Patients receive a write-up of the history of the painting and the artist from the program director in a mail-out packet which also includes a color copy of the completed painting.

The process begins when a coordinating artist sketches an outline copy of a picture. The sketch is divided into nine to twenty 10-inch square grids, which are color-coded. AIM Volunteers take the squares and paints into the chemotherapy out-patient clinic where patients are provided with paint brushes and paints to complete the grid while they receive treatment. Completed squares are combined to form the finished work, which is matted and framed with a plaque listing the names of those who participated.

The Results

The final products are hung in the Feist-Weiller Cancer Center chemo clinics and hallways; in the Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplantation/Leukemia units on the sixth floor of University Health hospital; and in the hospital lobby.

Throughout the AIM program, the project director and hospital staff found that cancer patients doing art feel less stress, and for the moment they are relieved of the pressures of their disease. The unexpected result of the project has been the quality of the finished products, as well as the joy the patients experience as they proudly point out "their" squares. See the beautiful results.

“I find that as I paint I am removed from the world of worry, sadness, pain, cancer, chemotherapy, needles, etc., and transported to a worry-free world of bright colors and pleasure.”

- Margaret, cancer patient at Feist-Weiller Cancer Center and AIM participant


“Painting makes it fun to come here and it helps to pass the time. I like seeing the paintings hanging when I come. I tease my family that I’m working on masterpieces.”

- Vicki, cancer patient at Feist-Weiller Cancer Center and AIM participant