Local artist struggling with MS to debut works at Norwich gallery
NORWICH – The Artists’ Palette of Norwich and Chobani are partnering to sponsor a unique exhibit for local artist and Multiple Sclerosis survivor Frank Feitsma. The gallery opening, scheduled to run from 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday at the Artists’ Palette in Norwich, will feature an appearance by Feitsma, who hopes to sell some of his works to allow him to keep painting.
Feitsma, currently of Binghamton, has been battling the life-long debilitating disease of MS since he was diagnosed at age 27. He gradually lost the mobility of his arms and legs to the disease. Despite these losses and an impaired ability to speak, Feitsma has found a way to communicate with friends and family through art.
Feitsma, also known as “Frankie Picasso,” grew up on a family farm in Earlville and worked at the Sherburne Great American as a young adult. Beginning as a bag boy, Feitsma worked his way up through the ranks to grocery manager.
Since the onset of his disabilities, Feitsma has turned to art – something he admits he thought very little of as a form of expressing his emotions prior to his diagnosis,.
Feitsma began his art career as a participant in the Binghamton Magic Paintbrush Project, a program that helps people with disabilities to express themselves through creative means. There, he learned his unique painting technique – using his mouth and a plastic tube of paint.
Recently, Feitsma left the non-profit program and is now producing creations in his home, with hopes of being able to sell his abstract works to continue buying paint supplies and to help cover the costs of medical bills.
The Artists’ Palette and Chobani are now giving Feitsma his first solo opportunity to display and sell his art.
“He has such an amazing story. I couldn’t help wanting to showcase the positive message he brings,” said Jill Kraft, owner of The Artists’ Pallete.
Feitsma’s wife, Gail, alerted Kraft to their situation while visiting her Norwich store. In turn, Kraft contacted Chobani about the possibility of holding a gallery opening for the Feitsmas.
“Chobani didn’t hesitate,” said Kraft, who received positive interest from the company.
Chobani will be sponsoring the 45-day exhibit of Feitsma’s work, which will be displayed in the Jill Kraft Gallery at the Artists’ Palette, 6167 State Highway 12 North in Norwich.
Attendees will be able to enjoy refreshments as well as have the opportunity to appreciate Feitsma’s unique artistic style. Feitsma will also have more than 20 paintings for sale.
“We are hoping for a large turnout,” said Kraft about the event. “Even if people don’t like art or don’t plan to buy any paintings, Frankie has a unique story that needs to be heard and supported.”
Feitsma’s work will be on display until Aug. 28. For more information regarding the show, contact the Artists’ Palette at 224-1445 or stop by the gallery at its Norwich location.
Feitsma, currently of Binghamton, has been battling the life-long debilitating disease of MS since he was diagnosed at age 27. He gradually lost the mobility of his arms and legs to the disease. Despite these losses and an impaired ability to speak, Feitsma has found a way to communicate with friends and family through art.
Feitsma, also known as “Frankie Picasso,” grew up on a family farm in Earlville and worked at the Sherburne Great American as a young adult. Beginning as a bag boy, Feitsma worked his way up through the ranks to grocery manager.
Since the onset of his disabilities, Feitsma has turned to art – something he admits he thought very little of as a form of expressing his emotions prior to his diagnosis,.
Feitsma began his art career as a participant in the Binghamton Magic Paintbrush Project, a program that helps people with disabilities to express themselves through creative means. There, he learned his unique painting technique – using his mouth and a plastic tube of paint.
Recently, Feitsma left the non-profit program and is now producing creations in his home, with hopes of being able to sell his abstract works to continue buying paint supplies and to help cover the costs of medical bills.
The Artists’ Palette and Chobani are now giving Feitsma his first solo opportunity to display and sell his art.
“He has such an amazing story. I couldn’t help wanting to showcase the positive message he brings,” said Jill Kraft, owner of The Artists’ Pallete.
Feitsma’s wife, Gail, alerted Kraft to their situation while visiting her Norwich store. In turn, Kraft contacted Chobani about the possibility of holding a gallery opening for the Feitsmas.
“Chobani didn’t hesitate,” said Kraft, who received positive interest from the company.
Chobani will be sponsoring the 45-day exhibit of Feitsma’s work, which will be displayed in the Jill Kraft Gallery at the Artists’ Palette, 6167 State Highway 12 North in Norwich.
Attendees will be able to enjoy refreshments as well as have the opportunity to appreciate Feitsma’s unique artistic style. Feitsma will also have more than 20 paintings for sale.
“We are hoping for a large turnout,” said Kraft about the event. “Even if people don’t like art or don’t plan to buy any paintings, Frankie has a unique story that needs to be heard and supported.”
Feitsma’s work will be on display until Aug. 28. For more information regarding the show, contact the Artists’ Palette at 224-1445 or stop by the gallery at its Norwich location.
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