Artist advocates for MS with painting
by JESSICA L. FINCH Associate Editor

Amherst resident John O'Reilly's painting, "Sweet Childish Days," will be one of the selections at the third annual MS Art Exhibition and Lottery on March 30. O'Reilly was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1981.

When John O'Reilly had to stop working after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, he felt he lost a sense of purpose.

The Amherst resident had always enjoyed painting, and after leaving work he focused on that hobby. He now uses his talents to benefit the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Upstate New York Chapter and help others like him.

His painting, "Sweet Childish Days," will be one of 50 showcased in the third annual MS Art Exhibition and Lottery, scheduled from noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, March 30 at the Buffalo Museum of Science.

O'Reilly's piece, of a mother and her son, was inspired by a trip to Atlantic City.

"I like to sit on the boardwalk and sketch," he said. "I saw a mother and her son there, and that's where the idea came. The colors are very active."

In his biography, O'Reilly says he has always had art in his life and can't recall a time when he wasn't fascinated with it.

As a child he spent hours drawing and painting, and as a student at Bennett High School he developed his talent, winning several awards.

He worked as an illustrator and head of the Base Management Art Department during his four-year tenure in the Air Force.

O'Reilly started work as a graphic artist at Printing Prep in 1968 and within a year was made a partner.

His talent and recognition continued to grow. His design for the University at Buffalo's 125th anniversary was chosen for publications and stationery in 1971.

After being diagnosed with MS in 1981, O'Reilly eventually had to leave his job. He said it was a difficult time, but with the help of his wife, Charleen, and new medical research he was able to pursue his true passion - art. O'Reilly is a member of the Williamsville Art Society.

O'Reilly's work has been featured in all three MS art exhibitions. His painting, "The Immigrantes," inspired by his Irish heritage, was the winner of the 2005 MS Art Lottery's Collector's Choice Award.

Tickets for this year's lottery are $300 per couple, which includes the art exhibition, wine tasting, hors d'oeuvres, and an 18- by 23-inch print from featured artist Conrad Borucki, a member of the Williamsville Art Society.

Other Society members with pieces included in the lottery are: Judie Pufpaff, Jeri Militello, Majorie Norton and Marie Prince.

Each participant will receive one of the 50 donated art pieces, each valued at at least $300. Only 50 patron tickets will be sold to ensure that everyone receives a painting.

On the day of the event, all donated pieces are displayed. Ticket holders' names are then drawn randomly and the individuals make their selection from the donated pieces. The art lottery ends when all pieces have been selected.

O'Reilly said if he can get one message across, it's to reach out to newly diagnosed MS patients.

"I didn't want to go to a support group, but my wife got me to do it, and I am so glad," he said. "Like many people, I didn't understand."

He said he went through four stages of emotions, including anger and fear. By joining a support group through National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Upstate New York Chapter he was able to deal with his diagnosis and also learn about new medical information.

"You don't think you need that, and later you find out you do," he said.

Those interested in information on the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, Upstate New York Chapter, should visit www.msupstateny. org.

For information on the Lottery, visit www.msartlottery.org or call Jennifer Newman at 634-2573, ext. 15 or e-mail jennifer.new man@ nyr. nmss. org.