Illuminating
March 2026 Chronic Pain Project updates, writings and tidbits
March Musings
March brings a new outlook on pain’s relation to art, a new exhibition and a number of conditions in the spotlight for awareness this month. Read on for ideas, stories and resources for the chronic pain community.
Pain Becoming Art; Art Turning Into Dialogue
“Nothing forces us to know what we do not want to know except pain.” ― Aeschylus
By Board Member Philip Yassenoff
Pain, distant and then near, through the day and into the night, makes us choose between giving in to despair or transcending that which does not care for our comfort or spirit. Many have suffered more, and many less. Does it matter the degree of pain, or that it simply exists outside of our control. An exercise in fear is still fear. A dent in one’s soul remains a loss however it happens.
Responding to pain is forced, and human. What choice is there? When our efforts fail, are incomplete, or fleeting, what impulse to create gives meaning through artistic metaphor? An alchemy exists between pain and art; straw into gold. Through the ages, torment has become creation, landing on a wall somewhere, to speak the truth. Whether it’s jarring, beautiful, chaotic, or peaceful, art sweeps us along like fuel fosters movement.
Art creates dialogue. The painting, sculpture, or photograph is no isolated object. Pain becomes art, art becomes language, and language seeks reciprocity. We show art to create a conversation, even when the artist is not present.
A moment of pain needs to be shared because the sharing is the healing thing. Otherwise, a painting is just a pretty object hanging above a couch and the artist's intent went to vapor.
You may say that dialogue is a back and forth thing between two people. But where does that conversation land? In the mind of each concerned. If the art speaks to the observer, the mind carries the dialogue further, and is passed along through understanding and appreciation for the artist’s story. The artist intuits the conversations their work inspires. Knowing you said your piece physically, graphically offers solace and hope. The pain is still there, but you turned it into something else, and you are no longer suffering alone.
Are you living with chronic pain? How does art inspire you or help you process your pain? We’d love to hear your experiences in the comments below.
Hear from Our Artists
Not only do our artists create moving pieces, they also have fascinating life stories. This month, we focus on Katalina Marmolejo, who shares how traumatic brain injury (TBI) informs her artwork. Read more from her on our Instagram.
“TBI is so invisible and so debilitating, partly because of disbelief. I wish people knew a brain injury doesn’t make you stupid or crazy.”
In this video, Katalina talks in depth about a piece she created, “Before the Monsters,” while dropping it off for one of our exhibits.
Did you know your gift can help artists with chronic pain? Your donation removes barriers like shipping costs for artwork, provides art supplies to participants who face financial limitations, and allows artists to share their stories through sliding scale and free programming.
Buy Art, Support Creators
Looking to decorate your space or just support independent artists? You can find many of the pieces that were created for the Chronic Pain Project for sale in our digital gallery. These artworks aren't just beautiful—they're powerful expressions of what it's like to live with chronic pain. Each piece tells a story that's often invisible to the outside world.
Visit our digital gallery to find a one-of-a-kind piece AND show your support to the Chronic Pain Project and all of our amazing creators (75% of each sale goes directly to the artist!).
News & Resources
Brain Injury Awareness Month: According to the CDC, there are approximately 5.3 million Americans living with a long-term disability caused by traumatic brain injury. Every March, the Brain Injury Association of America (BIAA) leads the nation in observing Brain Injury Awareness Month. Celebrities with TBI include actor Gary Busey and Apple Computers co-founder Steve Wozniak. To learn more about Brain Injury Awareness Month, check out BIAA’s site for a downloadable toolkit featuring flyers, posters, social media templates and more.
Endometriosis Awareness Month: Observed each March, Endometriosis Awareness Month is a global movement dedicated to increasing recognition and diagnosis of endometriosis. This initiative brings together clinicians, researchers, patients and organizations to address the physical, emotional and social impact of a condition that affects an estimated 200 million women across cultures (per IUGA, the International Urogynecological Association). The month encourages more conversation and greater awareness to support more informed, compassionate care. Celebrities with endometriosis include TV host Padma Lakshmi, singer Halsey and comedian Amy Schumer.
Like what you’re reading? Pass it on!
Want to find out about all of our upcoming exhibits, workshops and events? We’ve moved to a separate weekly(ish) newsletter format.
These articles are not meant to replace medical advice. Talk to your doctor about your specific situation.
That’s all for this month. Comment below with any ideas, questions or just to say “hi”!
Jennifer Roop, Board Secretary
We are a 501(c)(3) organization
Phillip’s writing is so beautiful.
I am so moved by Katalina's phenomenal piece "Before the Monsters Came". The details are amazing and the color palette is stunning! This is an unforgettable piece!