Mindrup Wins Juror's Choice in National Exhibition
Artwork by Rachel Mindrup, associate professor and the Richard L. Deming, MD Endowed Chair in Medical Humanities, won the Juror's Choice Award at the Virginia Mennonite Retirement Community national art exhibition in Harrisonburg, Virginia.
Mindrup's oil portrait, called "Antwan Motivating Others," focuses on patient Antwan, of Kansas City, Missouri, who was diagnosed with neurofibromatosis and severe scoliosis at the age of 2 that later led to chronic restrictive lung disease. His body transformed, and with it, his life changed. A ventilator and supplemental oxygen became Antwan's constant companions. He was 29 when he first had to start using the ventilator due to his lung having restricted space and not able to fully expand. Antwan has undergone 18 surgeries and faced daily medical challenges that would cause many to lose hope.
Antwan received a degree in social work from the University of Kansas and a master's degree in business administration from Baker University. He refused to be defined by these conditions, firmly embracing the belief, “I have neurofibromatosis, but it does not have me.”
There were over 500 pieces entered and a total of 61 pieces were selected for exhibition, available to view through the end of June.
More about the subject
Antwan channeled his trials and tribulations into strength and passion. This ignited within him a desire to inspire and support others facing their hardships. He eagerly shares his conviction that individuals are not victims of their circumstances but architects of their destinies, capable of overcoming adversity. Antwan’s story is a beacon of hope and resilience, reminding others that it is possible to rise above even the most daunting obstacles. While neurofibromatosis is a part of his life, it does not define who Antwan is but is a facet of his complex existence.
The painting that bears witness to Antwan's journey is a testament to his indomitable spirit. It portrays defiance in the face of neurofibromatosis and celebrates the power of the human spirit. The canvas is his battleground, where adversity is met with resilience, challenges are confronted with courage, and it becomes a symbol of victory over a disorder that threatens but never conquers.