By John Jaw
Niagara Falls Review
Niagara Falls - Breast cancer has taken a lot from Maria Klokkou. But it can't touch her paint brush.
Since being diagnosed four years ago, the British-born artist has turned her pain into stunning floral paintings, many large enough to fill a wall. They inhabit her scenic home/gallery on Lundy's Lane like a gigantic garden.
"Mentally it's really rewarding and I wouldn't do anything else," she said.
Now, one of her pieces has been chosen as the new emblem for this month's Life After Breast Cancer Conference in Hamilton.
The painting depicts a pink opium poppy, and is shown on posters, pamphlets and ads promoting the event, October 26 at the Hamilton Convention Centre.
"I'm unbelieveably proud," she said. "I'm at the hospital every four weeks. They're keeping an eye on me, so I felt it was time to give back."
To help promote the conference, Klokkou is hosting a VIP reception Sunday at her newly named Romney House Gallery (6995 Lundy's Lane). She''ll unveil about 50 new pieces, including unique new floral paintings on custom-made circular canvasses.
The show will offer live music, opening remarks by Mayor Ted Salci and a draw for one of her original works, with proceeds going to the Life After Breast Cancer Society.
Klokkou is still being treated for active cancer cells.
"I'm under the threat of chemo all the time, but (the oncologist) is not going to do it unless he really has to," she said. "Right now it's minimal."
Despite the monthly ordeal, Klokkou doesn't dwell on her condition.
"I keep myself very active with the art world and now I want to be involved in helping the cause. (They are) a great bunch of people at the hospital. They're very uplifting and they've been very good to me."
Since arriving in Niagara Falls 13 years ago, Klokkou has been a vocal - and visible - advocate of the arts.
She's hoping her refurbished gallery leads to an arts district on Lundy's Lane.
"I don't think in my mind there's going to be a day when (the cancer) will ever be gone," she said. "It will always be there. I'm just hoping we can keep it away to give me a long enough life to get everything done I want to do."
For more information on the Life After Breast Cancer Conference, visit www.hrcc.ca/labc/labc.htm.
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