There is something magical about paints, colored paper, crayons and glue.

Each day, young patients are encouraged to participate in Children’s Art Project art classes when they are not feeling well, only to find that a couple of hours and a few pictures later, they don’t want class to end.

At M. D. Anderson, art class is a time for young patients to shine. It’s a time for them to be recognized for their accomplishments, ideas and creativity, rather than for their illness. And it’s a time for youngsters to express emotions that might not easily be put into words.

The youngsters’ colorful imaginations — paired with the insight and maturity they acquire from their experiences with cancer — make for art that has captured the hearts of thousands of people around the world.

— Andria Frankfort