1/23/2007 6:36:00 PM
Auction benefits artist battling cancer
Mother/daughter mural painting team pauses during healing process
| |
|
 |
| Jeanelle “Page” Westerfield works at her home studio prior to surgery, which rendered her right side and arm in pain. She is unable to work as she heals from the surgery in which part of her lung was removed. Contributed photos |
|
by Amy Alderman
Jeanelle "Page" Westerfield is known in Galena and Dubuque as an artist and a supporter of the arts in over 40 years of professional painting. Now the tables have turned, and Westerfield's daughter, Sarah Barnes, who is also an artist, is asking the community and especially area artists to help her mom in a time of need. Barnes is hosting an art auction at the Four Mounds Foundation Friday, Jan. 26 from 7 to 10 p.m. to benefit her mother.
Westerfield recently underwent surgery to remove part of her right lung, rendering the right side of her body in pain during the healing process. She is right handed and is unable to work, which as any artist could understand, is a difficult reality to battle in itself. This is also the second time she is battling cancer.
"She won't be able to work for quite a while," said Sarah. "That's her livelihood. . . We're hosting a benefit to help her get through this time."
Westerfield has painted acrylic, oil, watercolors, pen and ink and pastels for over 40 years. She is also a master glass painter. She is known for her florals and murals, which have inspired her daughter's work as well, although Barnes says she definitely has her own style.
She learned about art by sitting by her mother's side at the home studio, picking up paint brushes and canvases.
"She never inhibited me from expressing myself," said Barnes.
She went to art school and later collaborated with her mother in their business called Mural Inspirations.
They paint murals on walls, tiles and furniture. Last fall, they worked together on a project for the Parade of Homes in Dubuque. They bounced ideas off each other, shared paint and went to work on the walls of a home.
Westerfield's recovery is expected to take about six months. She is looking forward to getting back to work as soon as she can, and Barnes is looking forward to getting back to work with her partner in painting.
Westerfield has been a volunteer and board member for many area functions. She contributes, volunteers and donates to many benefits in the community. She has been involved in the Four Mounds Foundation art show, was involved in Dubuque Fest and is part of the Old House Enthusiasts group in Dubuque. She is also a long-time member of the Galena Artists Guild.
The auction will include the art of Westerfield and Barnes in addition to gift certificates, wine and salon products. There will also be wine, appetizers and live piano playing by Chuck Bergman. Barnes is hoping that the many artists will support the auction. Any area artists wishing to donate their work may do so by dropping items off at the home of Sarah Barnes at 3354 Kaufmann Ave., Dubuque. Barnes can be reached at 563-513-0026.
The Four Mounds Foundation is located at 4900 Peru Road, Dubuque.
|
Article Comment Submission Form
|
|
