UK HealthCare Patient Fulfills Lifelong Dream with Solo Art Exhibit

LEXINGTON, Ky. (Dec. 12, 2013) -- When Michael Marler, 58, was diagnosed with a brain tumor, his work became his therapy.  A lifelong painter and carver, Marler, a UK HealthCare patient who has received care at Markey Cancer Center and the Kentucky Neuroscience Institute, used art therapy as his "go-to" method of coping as his disease progressed.

Now a hospice patient, Marler will see his life's dream of a solo exhibit come to fruition thanks to the efforts of Hospice of the Bluegrass and the Junior League of Lexington. "Up in Arms: the Art of Michael Marler" will take place 4 to 7 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 15, at the Bodley Bullock House in Gratz Park. In accordance with Marler's wishes, proceeds from any works sold that day will be donated to Hospice of the Bluegrass. 

The exhibit will showcase Marler's work from 2011 to present, which chronicle his ability to adapt to the progress of his disease through the use of vivid colors and changing textures, according to Anne Deck, WUKY employee and arts chair for the Junior League.  

"The title for the exhibit was chosen to reflect Michael's contagious, uplifting spirit and unwavering faith," says Deck. "It is truly a special person who can go beyond their illness and share, through art, their deeply personal moments from their Hospice journey." 

In addition to works for sale, visitors can fill a guest registry with messages of support and encouragement for Michael and his family.