One of the few challenges more difficult than parenting is parenting a special needs child. The angst of working through medical issues, academic issues, and dealing with sometimes daunting equipment is just a fraction of the concerns that such parents have. So anything that can make otherwise intimidating equipment actually put a smile on one’s face has got to be a good thing, right?
Artist Paula Strawn found a way to do just that. A friend of hers had a grandchild who had to wear a corrective helmet due to a treatable condition called flat-head syndrome. The friend asked Strawn if she would please paint that “ugly thing.” And so Strawn did. The baby’s doctor saw it and encouraged Strawn to leave some business cards at his office. Twelve years – and over 1000 “ugly helmets” transformed into works of art that put a smile on faces – later, Strawn is inspiring others and still creating custom works of art, one helmet at a time! Here are five more examples of her wonderful work and options available:
2. Traditional Art
3. Stories come to life
4. Fruit that looks good enough to eat with cute sayings
5. Cartoons that look animated
Bonus: Just too many cute options to stop at five!
To see more of Strawn’s amazing work or get information about her services, visit her website at www.lazardo.smugmug.com.
HAVE A GREAT WEEKEND!
Love it! Cannot imagine the attitude shift going from the ugly white helmet to the masterpiece! Great post, amazing idea.
It’s a testament to what happens when one taps into their own creative ability – the possibilities are endless!
The extra smiles those kiddos receive as a result of those fancy helmets probably benefits them (and the parents) as much as the helmets. Thanks for sharing. So cute!
I know they put a smile on my face! It didn’t hurt to see that gurgling, smiley baby model in them!
cute creative idea….
I loved the creativeness of it, too – it seems like Paula Strawn would be up to the challenge of any category someone could come up with to paint! Have a nice weekend, Lin!
What a gift that artist has given! Can you put a price tag on joy? What a gift these little ones are as well. Thanks for sharing this inspiring post, Shel!
She was indeed given a great gift – and she seems to be using it well! I was so impressed with her work I ended up looking at each category on her website – even the sports (which is not my thing!). Have a great weekend, Peggi!
Precious! Great idea.
“Precious” is such a great word to describe the transformation from ugly to smile-worthy! Have a great weekend, Vickey!
What a great idea! I love the ocean life! Thanks for sharing, Shel!
Happy Weekend!
Paula Strawn is such a terrific artist – she made everything seem so alive! Hope you’re enjoying your weekend, too, Jill!
What an uplifting posting, Shel! And what an amazing idea to brighten up the struggles of parents who deal with this issue! Thanks for sharing!
Thanks, Natine. I really enjoyed looking at all of Paula Strawn’s designs – that is one talented lady!