Zebras in Athens?
- a story of health and perseverance, gratitude and grace
For the third year, I'm honored to participate in the art exhibition and fundraiser for Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes research (EDS). This cause is dear to my heart, and I wanted to let you know that the closing reception for the Together We Dazzle exhibition will be held on Thursday, October 16th, from 6-8pm at 127 N Jackson St. Athens, GA USA.
Are you in Athens, GA? Can you go support them and stand in for me?
I wish I were there.
Even if you are far away from Athens, you can browse the offerings online. For more information about EDS and the event, look here. There is an overview of the 2025 exhibiton, events and artwork listing but you can also go directly to the original art page or the prints offered page.
Zebra WILL Dazzle, by René Shoemaker. ink on black board
Christina Joy Littleton is the curator, and she is passionate about this topic.
Christina was diagnosed with EDS in 2021. After a promising career in dance, language, and travel, she had to give up her love for dance as her hypermobile joints—a hallmark of EDS—were causing increased instability and pain, even berfore she knew what the problem was.
As an artist, Christina's reaction to her diagnosis was to build a community to raise awareness and funds for EDS, to help others with the condition. She has been on a path now to help others as she helps herself—through art! She has a busy and productive art career, she is shop manager at the K.A. Artist Shop in Athens, GA, she is a lover of travel—and eclipses—literally!
Astrophotography by Christina Littleton
In the video below, Christina shares a gallery tour of the exhibition. Of course you can make purchases via the K. A. Artist website and they will ship your new art to you.
Christina shares the 2025 exhibition
A portion, if not 100%, of all sales goes toward EDS research.
In 2024, Christina's event raised over $6,000 for EDS research!
Many thanks from both me and Christina and the EDS community if you take a look.
With a love for all things art,
-René
August 1 - October 16, 2025
Together We Dazzle
K. A. Artist Shop
127 N. Jackson St.
Athens, GA 30601 USA