From East to West: Artist Carolyn Frankel Brings Transformative Exhibit to Westlake

Celebrated artist and author Carolyn Frankel is bringing her newest installation Transformation More Beautiful Than Before to the Moses Art Gallery at The Gathering Place in Westlake. The exhibit runs October 3 through December 31, 2025, with a free opening reception on Tuesday, October 7, 5:30–8:00 PM.A Journey of Art and HealingFrankel is not only an acclaimed painter but also a breast cancer survivor and caregiver—her daughter also faced cancer. Her artistic path became a form of therapy during treatment, evolving into the illustrated book Spiritual Warrior, which chronicles her five-year journey from diagnosis to recovery.

“Cancer is a powerful teacher, but having cancer is also a transformative journey. With transformation we can often emerge better and more beautiful than before,” Frankel says.

The idea of the “spiritual warrior” runs throughout her work. It’s a philosophy of turning one’s own suffering into something that helps others. “I am concerned about other people’s wellness,” Frankel explains. “That’s what a spiritual warrior does—you take your own loss and transform it into a gift of strength for someone else.”Her third book grew directly out of that belief: using her art as therapy, then turning it outward to support others walking the same road.From East to West – and Back to CommunityThis West Side exhibit holds deep personal meaning. Frankel is donating 20% of the proceeds—with works offered at reduced prices exclusively for The Gathering Place show—directly back to the nonprofit that helped her in her journey. Her books will also be available, with a portion of sales supporting The Gathering Place’s free programs for those impacted by cancer.Michele Seyranian, CEO of The Gathering Place, says:

“It is amazing to see the impact that self-expression can have on a person during their cancer journey. It is one of the reasons we provide art, music, journaling, and other avenues of expression for our participants.”

The Gathering Place Art GalleriesWhat makes The Gathering Place art galleries especially meaningful is that committed artists generously donate part of the proceeds from their shows to support the organization—helping keep all services free of charge for individuals and families touched by cancer.The Westlake location is home to the Moses Art Gallery, where Frankel’s exhibit will be shown. On the East Side, visitors can explore the Bornstein Art Gallery at:The Gathering Place East
23300 Commerce Park
Beachwood, OH 44122Both galleries are designed to inspire hope and healing while also sustaining The Gathering Place’s mission.A Night to Savor and ConnectThe October 7 reception promises not just art but an uplifting community gathering. Guests will enjoy wine, cheese, and cookies while meeting the artist, learning more about The Gathering Place, and connecting with neighbors in a warm and welcoming space.This free event is both soothing and inspiring—perfect for art lovers, survivors, caregivers, and anyone seeking a night of beauty and meaning.Event Details

• Exhibit: Transformation More Beautiful Than Before
• Dates: October 3 – December 31, 2025
• Reception: Tuesday, October 7, 5:30–8:00 PM
• Location: The Gathering Place’s Moses Art Gallery, 4911 Commerce Parkway, Westlake, OH 44145
• Cost: Free & open to the public

Questions or RSVPFor questions or to RSVP for this beautiful evening, please reach out to Holly Bhatt at 216-455-1519 or Bhatt@touchedbycancer.org