

Part of the My Time Our Time campaign, Artivism is an initiative that combines the concepts of art and activism to give women with advanced breast cancer a voice to shine a light on the importance of time.
Women living with advanced breast cancer can feel excluded and isolated. We know that the patient journey is deeply personal, and no two experiences are the same. But for all these women, time matters. Even though it might take on a different meaning. Time offers women cherished opportunities to continue enjoying their lives, fulfilling their purpose and dreams among loved ones within their communities, in the workplace, and in the world.
Artivism aims to empower women living with advanced breast cancer by providing a platform to express their personal stories, reflect on their diagnosis and treatment journey and communicate their emotions and needs with their loved ones and healthcare teams through artistic expression.
Art therapy is a key component of the Artivism initiative. We know that art therapy can play an important role in enhancing quality of life and mental health. Through art, women living with advanced breast cancer can communicate their emotions in deeply personal and unique ways. The result is an effective dialogue between patients, their loved ones and healthcare professionals.
The Artivism initiative was launched in the European Society for Medical Oncology 2019 Congress (ESMO 2019), where the 1st collaboration with Spanish artist Sara Herranz was established. Her mural explores the meaning of time through different illustrations which capture daily scenes of women living with the disease. Violet flowers grow throughout all the illustrations, symbolising rebirth and marking the journey of these inspiring and resilient women.
“Loss of self-esteem is one of the issues commonly faced by women with advanced breast cancer. I wanted to portray a woman in a moment of intimacy. A woman who feels attractive and seductive. A confident woman who likes her reflection in front of the mirror”
“This image captures the look of warmth, kindness and unconditional love of a grandmother for her grandson. spending more time with the people you love the most is invaluable to women living with advanced breast cancer”
“Feeling supported by our loved ones during treatment is essential for women with advanced breast cancer. A mother lovingly embracing her daughter is a snapshot of the strong and special bond between them”
“Birthdays take on a new meaning for women after being diagnosed with advanced breast cancer. The acknowledgement of this special day reflects their willpower to celebrate each new year in their lives”
Spanish illustrator Sara Herranz was the first artist to take part in the My Time Our Time Artivism campaign 2019. She lives and works in Madrid. Her style is minimalist and clear.