Shana Stern – Los Angeles, CA

2017 MSAA MS Ability Art Showcase Entrants

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Shana Stern – Los Angeles, CA

I was a dancer, a writer, a mum, then — a person with MS. The unrelenting symptoms and medications stripped everything which made me – “me”. I was lost.

Then, I discovered painting. Unable to hold a paintbrush, I created my own unique method – using my fingers and knuckles.

Every painting starts with a song. I listen only to that song from conception to completion. The result brings out a visceral fluidity of emotion and movement in each piece.

Attempting to control the uncontrollable, making something beautiful as I move paint across the canvas is my way of fighting back against the MS.

Sitting on the floor, bent over canvas, covered in paint — I feel no pain or limitations.

Those parts of me which felt lost – thrive again. I don’t dance on my toes – but with my hands. I don’t need words for stories – just paints. My art helped me find joy, purpose and the strength and confidence to believe in myself again. I may have MS but MS does not have me.

Sleep to Dream

Devil’s Backbone

Shiver & Shake