Painting: Coming Out

Artist: Marilyn Cosho

Artist’s Commentary: Being diagnosed at the age of 54 was like coming out of a dark hole. The stairs represent the long journey. The diagnosis also gave me the courage to share my art, which I had kept hidden in the dark.

Painting: The Exam

Artist: Michael Tolleson

Artist’s Commentary: This person waits to be examined by the doctors. The area where she waits is full of color while a cold, clinical gray surrounds the doctors. Her head hangs in fear and her arms are folded and protective of her and her nakedness. She knows she is soon to be laid bare in front of alien eyes. It’s as if the very blood in her body is draining out of her and onto the seat and floor. The doctors suck in her discomfort like vampires feasting on her blood.