RAYS Project Seeks Artwork to Highlight Skin Cancer Dangers

Area residents with artwork capturing the beauty of the sun are invited to submit them to the RAYS Project, sponsored by the Regional Chronic Disease Coalition of Morris/Somerset Counties.

The project is aimed at highlighting the beauty of the sun through art and photography, while distributing information about the dangers of sun exposure without proper protection.  

"We are looking for striking images of your interpretation of the sun, rays from residents who live, work and or attend classes in Morris or Somerset Counties," Nancy Edwards of Creative Spaces, a member of the Regional Chronic Disease Coalition of Morris and Somerset Counties who developed the project, said. "Photography, drawings, paintings, and digital art…real or abstract!  Be creative! This is a chance for your work to be recognized and to make a difference!"

The deadline for submissions is March 31, with judging set for April 2 at XACT Studios.  All submissions for the RAYS Traveling Art & Photography Exhibit must be submitted digitally. The judging panel will select 30 photographs and 10-15 art pieces.  All submissions, including those selected, will be used to create Portable RAYS Banners and Exhibit Stands to be used to distribute health related information. 

For more information, check the Creative Spaces website 

This project was developed as an alternative way to educate the community about skin damage and cancer caused by exposure to the sun. Lucille Talbot of RCDC provided the educational component. XACT Studios has been instrumental in helping with the judging and printing aspects.  Various partners are providing exhibit space to highlight the RAYS Art Project.  

The Morris/Somerset Regional Chronic Disease Coalition (RCDC) is made possible by a grant from the New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services’ Office of Cancer Control and Prevention to the Somerset County Department of Health. For more information on the Coalition, to become a member or learn more about available educational and screening resources contact the RCDC Public Health Coordinator Lucille Y-Talbot at (908)-203-6077ytalbot@co.somerset.nj.us or visit www.co.somerset.nj.us/health