Harris Art Academy Fundraiser Supports METAvivor Breast Cancer Research
At Harris Art Academy, we’ve always believed that art is more than paint on canvas — it’s a way to inspire, connect, and give back to our community. This past December, our Howell art school hosted a very special Holiday Art Exhibit and Fundraiser to support METAvivor, an organization that funds life-saving research for Stage 4 metastatic breast cancer.
On Friday, December 2, 2022, families, students, and friends gathered in a heated tent outside our Regal Plaza studio. The evening was filled with dancing, appetizers, hot chocolate, and, of course, incredible artwork created by our students. Every piece carried more than creativity — it carried hope. Together, our community helped raise funds and awareness for a cause that touches so many lives.
✨ A Community Built on Heart
Our founder, Candice Harris, set the tone years ago by painting and donating over 200 one-of-a-kind heart canvases to New Jersey hospitals during the pandemic. That same spirit of giving inspired this event, proving that art can heal, uplift, and unite people in powerful ways.
At Harris Art Academy, we’re proud to be more than an art school. We’re a community partner, always willing to step forward when there’s a need — whether it’s celebrating creativity, supporting local families, or lending our studio to causes that matter.
💬 Stories That Inspire
We were honored to welcome Tami Eagle Bowling, co-founder of the METAvivor New Jersey chapter, as our guest speaker. Tami shared her story of being diagnosed with Stage 4 metastatic breast cancer at just 41, when doctors gave her two years to live. Seven years later, her message of resilience and gratitude continues to inspire everyone who meets her.
Her words that night reminded us of the strength that comes from research, advocacy, and community support:
“Every time I saw the tri-color ribbon painting at the hospital, it gave me hope that a long life is possible with continued research and support.”
🎗️ Art That Carries Hope
One of the most moving parts of the evening was learning how art connected Harris and Bowling. After Tami saw Candice’s painting “Life” online, Candice recreated it in METAvivor’s ribbon colors — pink, teal, and green — to symbolize hope and healing. That painting now hangs in the Dubin Breast Center at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, offering encouragement to countless patients.
🌟 Moving Forward
The fundraiser proved what we already know — when art and community come together, incredible things happen. Our students shared their talents, our neighbors showed their generosity, and together we contributed to research that gives families hope.
This event is just one example of how Harris Art Academy continues to use creativity to make a difference. From local fundraisers to kids’ workshops to family events, we’re committed to keeping our doors open not just as a studio, but as a home for community and compassion.
If you’d like to support METAvivor’s work, you can still visit: donate.metavivor.org/HarrisArtAcademy.