PASSION FOR LIFE is a program to fight cancer, launched in July 2004 by Antoine Gaber, a Canadian artist painter, and philanthropist internationally renowned. The artist has married two spheres of his life,art and clinical research, in establishing this program to raise awareness and funds in order to turn his passion for art into a source of hope and a hand reaching out to help others.

Passion for life and art, are two driving forces in Antoine Gaber's life, which he has magnificently merged in his relentless fight against disease. For over 25 years, this impressionist painter has contributed to the development of a variety of medications that are used around the world today for the treatment of many different types of cancer. This has led to his PASSION FOR LIFE project. Through sales of his art and images of his work, Gaber helps fund cancer research and creates greater public awareness about the disease.

Passion for Life: Cancer Research

Research Foundations, Working for Life!

A certain percentage of sales from his art during his shows and online sales of his entire PASSION FOR LIFE collection, original art, Giclée reproductions, art books, artistic cards, posters, fashion lines, are donated to a selected research foundation for a specific type of cancer for a specified period.

PASSION FOR LIFE PROGRAM ( Download Passion for Life )

Illustration and Promotion of a Book about Inherited Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal Cancer Can Run in the Family, a book written by the field's foremost specialists, provides a straightforward explanation of the disease, which has been one of the most tabooed types of cancer. The book aims at informing patients and their families about the risk factors associated with the disease (and genetically related risks) and advocates early detection in the near future.

The art cover of the book, created by Antoine Gaber, represents cherry trees blossoming in the springtime, with members of a family dancing, hand in hand, around one of the cherry trees. The roots of the trees, normally hidden under the earth, are depicted and symbolize how we absorb nourishment from our food.

Although only available in English for the moment, Colorectal Cancer Can Run in the Family will be translated into no fewer than eight languages.

Personal Involvement

After founding the endeavor with so much passion, Antoine Gaber has remained very much involved in the program and its promotion, adding his own personal touch. During his public appearances, his international reputation as an artist and researcher are definite assets in raising funds for research organizations.

As an example in 2004, a cancer center in Québec received one of his artwork, which was highly appreciated by patients. This gesture adds a more human touch to the setting in which they must live. Indeed, a friendly environment facilitates and enhances their treatment, making the setting more pleasant, while the art affords them a certain degree of escape.

In 2005, Antoine Gaber launched a campaign to increase awareness about breast cancer and to raise funds for one of the partners of the Canadian Breast Cancer Research Alliance (CBCRA) with Orlane Paris cosmetics and the Canadian Department stores The Bay. This national promotion was closely followed and supported by the top-ranked specialists.

Passion for Life: His Art Book and Exhibitions

The Book : "Antoine Gaber Passion for Life"

In June 2005, a magnificent art book ingeniously blending style and design was launched to celebrate Gaber's 11th year of artistic endeavor. It also marked a new phase in the PASSION FOR LIFE Program.

From 2004 to 2006, a multitude of exhibitions in various European cities showcased the artist's talent and provided opportunities to increase awareness about the PASSION FOR LIFE Program. One such major event was the prestigious Fifth Florence Biennial of Contemporary Art (Italy, 2005), which awarded the artist many prizes and distinctions for the quality of his art and his social initiative on an international scale.

In 2006, an exhibition of Gaber's art for PASSION FOR LIFE was shown in many of Italy's museums, including in Florence, along with the works of artists from around the world. This will coincide with the exclusive launch of his Fashion Line Collection.

Passion for Life: A Collection of the Latest Fashions!

June 2006, Florence, Italy: Exclusive Launch of the Gaber Fashion Line Collection

Indeed, 2006 marked twelve years of artistic endeavor for Gaber and the creation of PASSION FOR LIFE from Gaber, Fashion Line.

Launch in June of PASSION FOR LIFE Gaber Fashion Line at the Villa Medicea della Petraia, during the Florence Dance Festival, XVII edition Grand Gala.

Villa Medicea della Petraia

A Magnificent Series of Silk Scarves and Shawls

This Grand Gala opens with a richly variegated collection featuring silk scarves, and shawls, reproducing four of Antoine Gaber's most beautiful works of art: impressionist floral and superb bouquets. A soft or flamboyantly striking camaïeu glorifying the artist's passion both for life and color, in a unique collection dedicated, once again, to the PASSION FOR LIFE program.

Indeed, Antoine Gaber strives to heal and soothe the viewer with his art (art healing), because absorbing beauty is the first step in any healing of the body and spirit.

Today, PASSION FOR LIFE is an International Program that has earned the support of many personalities from the art, scientific communities, and as well as many dignitaries. By acquiring items from Antoine Gaber's signed collection, you are supporting the PASSION FOR LIFE initiative and contributing to the artist's mission: putting his talent to work for a good cause in an ongoing concern for harmony and communion with people and nature.

Nora Atalla: Writer, Poet, and Journalist