In curating the collection of historical artwork in the last tab, I wanted to use visual storytelling as a window into what it means to live well across cultures; I hoped to shine light on the overlooked importance of attaining joy and understanding longevity. By establishing happiness as a mainstream topic of discussion, I hope to prompt others to see the benefits of mindful living. 

 

At the same time, I couldn’t stop thinking about who can and should connect to longevity through art and beauty. That question felt especially important to me because of my own experience with serious illness. Medical care often centers on appointments, treatment plans, symptoms, etc. Those things matter, but they leave very little room for another important question: how do you continue to experience joy while your health demands so much of your attention? I wanted young people fighting illness and their families to feel that quality of life does not have to be postponed until treatment ends. Joy can exist alongside uncertainty, and wellbeing can mean more than simply getting better.

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That realization led me to expand the project. I created a collection of my own artwork inspired by the themes of longevity and happiness I had explored in the virtual gallery and offered the pieces for sale, with all proceeds benefiting The Painted Turtle, a camp that provides free summer sessions for children with serious and chronic medical conditions. The camp understands something I have come to believe deeply: caring for your health also means protecting your capacity for joy. Through my photography series, I raised $2,080, enough money to send ten children to camp next summer.