The FINANCIAL -- Get your canvases, paintbrushes and cameras ready — the subject is cancer and you are the storyteller.

According to Eli Lilly and Company, Lilly Oncology and the National Coalition for Cancer Survivorship announced the launch of the 2012 Lilly Oncology On Canvas: Expressions of a Cancer Journey Art Competition and Exhibition.

The biennial competition invites individuals from the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada, who were diagnosed with any type of cancer — as well as their families, friends, caregivers and healthcare providers — to express, through art and narrative, the life-affirming changes that give their cancer journeys meaning. Entries must be postmarked by June 29, 2012.

Oncology On Canvas was launched in 2004 by Lilly Oncology to help those affected by cancer cope with the emotional side of the disease. Winners' prizes consist of donations made to the cancer charities of their choice. Following the competition, much of the artwork embarks on a tour of cancer centers, hospitals and patient advocacy group events.

Since its inception, Lilly Oncology On Canvas has received more than 3,600 entries. However, these 3,600 stories are but a few of the many waiting to be told by the nearly 12 million cancer survivors alive today in the U.S. alone[i] — in addition to millions of others who love and care for them, according to Newt Crenshaw, vice president, Lilly Oncology.

The 2012 Lilly Oncology On Canvas competition is open to residents of the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada. There are three entrant categories: person diagnosed with cancer; family member, friend or caregiver; and healthcare professional. Original artwork that depicts one's cancer journey may be submitted in one of six media: watercolor, oil, pastel, photography, acrylic or mixed media. The artwork must be accompanied by a narrative.

Winners in 24 categories will be chosen by an independent panel of judges. Prizes consist of donations to cancer-related charities selected by the winners, ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. Following the competition, much of the artwork will embark on a tour of cancer centers, hospitals and patient advocacy group events. 

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