Little Green Monster: Cancer Magic! Our First Arts and Emotions Video. (The BRAVE Series!)

Today, Susan G. Komen Orange County sponsored my book reading and art demonstration video via their Facebook page. I am learning through COVID-19 that we have the strength, persistence and creativity to try new things, explore new normals, and create magical things during a devastating time. I am thankful for the opportunity to share my Little Green Monster creative arts workshop through this video.

There is a tremendous need to provide family-based cancer support. According to the American Cancer Society, over 5 million children nationwide are impacted by their parents’ cancer. In 2010, data shows that 18% of all cancer cases were parents with children under the age of 18. In 2012, data shows that .3% of all US families have a parent diagnosed with cancer. In particular, 30% of new female cancer cases in 2018 were breast cancer diagnoses, many with young children. Children need to talk about cancer diagnosis, treatment, survivorship and loss. They need to understand and talk about their feelings.

Here is a list of the video’s art activities, inspired by The Art of Silliness. I added a focus on emotions by observing different emotions in my body, noticing the facial expressions and body positions. Then I added these emotions to my little monster creations.

Found Photo Creature Drawings

• Draw a little monster without looking at the paper.

• Draw a second one one with your non-dominant hand.

• Draw a third little monster sitting on a branch.

• Find a fourth one in a photograph. I used photos of a playground and an IV pole.

• Try other mediums… create little monster friends out of playdough, pasta, or found objects. Remember to add an emotional expression!

My first Books, Art and Emotion video. More to come!

I look forward to making more videos focused on children’s books, arts and emotions. I found another facet of my prism. Stay tuned!

Sharon Chappell, PhD, is the Executive and Artistic Director of Well Beings Studio. She is a teacher, breast cancer survivor, parent and artist. 

If you would like a copy of The Little Green Monster: Cancer Magic! please contact sharon@wellbeings.studio. The Well Beings Studio will open an online shop soon. Until then, Sharon can ship directly!

Mental health is important. If you need support, contact MentalHealth.gov. The US Health and Human Services Department will help you talk about your concerns, and connect you with resources, such as a therapist or hotline. You can also visit your local 211 website (in Orange County, CA ours is www.211oc.org). If you are in crisis, please dial 911.