Alina Fleitas Garcia
Miami
Survivor 

Twist on Cancer: Although I honor and respect the word “survivor,” for me, the term  “overcomer” more accurately describes my journey. On the day I got the “news” that would change my life, I was determined that I would put up a fight and “overcome” this enemy. I would not be the poster child for cancer. But through my journey, I hoped to  inspire others to know that no matter the circumstances our spirits can rise above. I was blessed that my treatments went relatively well and that I am seven years cancer-free. You fight like a warrior, you overcome like a conqueror.

Mahwish Syed
New York, New York
MSD-NY.com
@mahwish_syed_designs

“How I See You”
Mixed media: plaster, silk, paper, paint
27 ¾”  x 23 ⅝”  x 7” 

Artist Statement: “We don't see things as they are. We see them as we are." — Anaïs Nin

Alina sees the world through the lens of creativity that transcends boundaries. And listening to her describe her cancer journey brought home her deep commitment to her students, her reverence for her craft and her sheer courage when facing her mortality. Honoring her roots in the dramatic arts, I realized that her resilience lay in her ability to nurture others despite suffering the gravity of her diagnosis and its treatment.

That is why the hands are holding the delicate silk, which symbolizes the tapestry of life. I carved the block print, inspired by the artist and activist William Morris, and painted the leaves evoking the layers we shed, the hair we shed, the illusions we shed. This decantation is often a blessing.

You are confronted by your shadow and your light. Alina’s light reflected like a mirror, a glowing moon of femininity and strength. I drew on my interior design, my roots in textiles and my poetry to fashion this homage to a woman’s creativity, her softness and her deep beauty. I saw Alina through my lens, and having gone through cancer myself, I had a profound understanding as a fellow initiate to the Eleusinian mysteries of life and death.

Honoring Alina’s journey was a gift for me, for not only did I see myself reflected back in her eyes, but I also cemented a deep friendship and reverence with a beautiful soul in creating her reflection.

Important! Delivery and Pick-Up Information

Tax Information

Auction proceeds benefit future Brushes With Cancer programs at the Arsht.

Contributions to Adrienne Arsht Center are fully tax-deductible less the fair market value of goods and services received. The fair market value for the goods and services associated with this gift is $3,333.

A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the Division of Consumer Services by calling toll-free within the state. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval or recommendation by the state. To obtain registration information, visit fdacs.gov or call 1-800-435-7352.

Photo credit: Morgan Sophia Photography