Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA)

Gilbert created this painting at age 12 at an MDA-sponsored children’s art workshop held April 25, 1992, in San Antonio.

Mackenzie completed fifth grade at Spring Branch School in Houston. One of her favorite activities was the Houston MDA summer camp each year, and she enjoyed drawing. This work of art was created in an MDA-sponsored children’s art workshop held June 6, 1992, in Houston.

Russell created this painting at age 15 at an MDA-sponsored children’s art workshop. While a student at Lackland Air Force Base High School, he enjoyed playing junior varsity basketball.

Shawna created this artwork at age 6 at an MDA-sponsored children’s art workshop held at the Dallas Museum of Art. She is a former MDA Goodwill Ambassador for the Dallas area. Shawna enjoys drawing, painting and collecting Barbie dolls.

Ashley began painting seriously in 1982. His artwork has been exhibited in many galleries in Tennessee, including the Parthenon Gallery in Nashville.

Kathleen spent 2½ months creating this optical illusion pattern. The number of shapes is unknown, but each of the 12 colors is used an equal number of times. Her award-winning work has been selected for numerous juried shows, including the Moss International Art Exhibit, and one of Kathleen’s works is displayed in a private art gallery in England.

Michael worked as a commercial illustrator for many years, but is now creating fine art. Some of his works have been exhibited at local shows as well as the Jackson County (Ore.) Courthouse. This painting is a tributeto Michael’s father who always had a garden which featured beautiful roses and tulips in vivid purples and yellows accented by the green stems.

Josh created this artwork at age 16 in an MDA-sponsored art workshop held in Providence. He graduated from West Warwick High School, and was a movie fan and football enthusiast.

Carl has been taking photos since 1972. His technique has evolved from traditional film photography processes to using software for cropping, tonal control, color mixing and other effects with scanned images. Although he uses a tracheostomy tube, Carl spends 95 percent of his field time by himself and uses a tripod to keep the camera steady.

Elisabeth excelled in music and digital media authoring. She won awards for Web site design while in high school. This artwork was featured in the 2003 MDA Holiday Wishes card collection.