Julie Ann Accornero
"A Creative Journey with Leukemia"

Showing at Art & Lit Gallery July 27 – August 16, 2024

Art & Lit is filled with wonder at our newest exhibit, the fourth by artist Julia Ann Accornero. A year ago Julie Ann began a journey that might easily have overwhelmed her soul. Instead she channeled her strength and her love into her art during one of the most difficult times of her life. She is a beautiful model of pouring one’s best into the world while also fighting hard to stay in it.

In 2023, Julie Ann was diagnosed with an aggressive form of leukemia called AML. Since then she has been transforming what could be an awful time into a creative journey.

She has been painting almost every day during her treatments, her bone marrow transplant, and her many hospital stays. Painting brings her joy and helps her forget about the diagnosis and all the discomforts of harsh chemo treatments.

Julie Ann’s goal is to bring a playful spirit into the hospital, and onto the IV poles and other medical subjects. She hopes that it brings joy to all the nurses, doctors and patients who see her art.

Two of her paintings are now a part of Stanford Children’s hospital. Children who see her art have fun finding the little critters in each painting. Julie Ann says, “It would make me so happy if my art sparked creativity in the children and adults to make their own art, in order to help them with their journeys in whatever difficult things they are dealing with in their lives.”

You can see more of Julie Ann's work on her website https://www.julieannaccornero.com/