23 July 2011

CANSA combines visual art and the environment to raise awareness

Submitted by: MyPressportal Team
The Cancer Association of South Africa (CANSA) will host a group art exhibition with the theme “Cancer a 2nd Chance” to help spread awareness about cancer. The art exhibition will be held at the William Humprey’s Art Galley in Kimberley from 1 to 22 October 2009.
Participating artists include Marthinus Höll (painting), Zuanda Badenhorst (painting), Minette Saayman (pottery), Roy Stark (wall hangings and textiles), Dirk Meerkotter (painting), Annelize Bowker (painting) and Loeritha Saayman (painting). Artists can be contacted directly for photo opportunities.

“As an artist, I weave the environment in my art, the landscape, rain or dust. I also notice how our environment is affected by pollution. This exhibition reminds all South Africans that 90% of cancers are caused by environmental factors – a polluted environment is linked to the increase in cancer” says Martinus Höll, CANSA volunteer and organiser.

He adds: “Besides raising awareness of the carcinogens in the environment, the art generates income for CANSA through the sale of the items to provide much needed funds. Or you can join the fight by becoming a volunteer and help CANSA provide essential services to meet the needs of individuals and families facing one of the most difficult experiences of their lives”.

CANSA allocates over R4 million for cancer research in South Africa annually. The outcomes of these research projects influence CANSA’s watchdog and health education services. To reduce cancer risks, CANSA creates public awareness of known cancer-causing agents and how to avoid them. CANSA’s seal of recognition has been developed to provide consumers with peace of mind when purchasing products displaying our smart choice emblem. In addition CANSA educates the public on the importance of early cancer detection and treatment, which is vital to prevent unnecessary deaths from this disease.

About Martinus Höll (the volunteer organiser)
Martinus is an active volunteer with CANSA for 30 years. His passion is art and through his work and voluntary activities, he helps CANSA provide essential services to meet the needs of individuals and families facing one the most difficult experiences of their lives.

About the William Humphreys Art Gallery
Situated in Kimberley's Civic Centre, is considered one of the finest art museums in South Africa. It was opened in 1952 and named after its principal benefactor, William Benbow Humphreys (1889 - 1965). At present the Art Gallery concentrates on collecting South African works of art. Apart from its primary function as a museum of art, this Gallery serves the community as an educational and cultural centre

If you want to know more about CANSA services or would like to volunteer or support CANSA in the fight against cancer, visit www.cansa.org.za email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call CANSA toll-free 0800 22 66 22 during office hours.

Issued by Lucy Balona, Communication Department, CANSA National Office 011 616 7662 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

ENDS

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