Sunny Days of Ithaca
Located at 171 E. State St. (Center Ithaca building, by Home Dairy Alley and the playground)
Barb Soyka: Pouring My Arts Out
Fifteen years ago, I was diagnosed with aggressive, incurable Stage IV Retroperitoneal Leiomyosarcoma, an extremely rare form of cancer (1 in 5 million). Through over 100 tumors, years of chemotherapy, multiple surgeries, and chronic pain, I’ve faced death six times, losing a husband, a few friends, and my career in IT along the way. Despite these hardships, I’ve emerged victorious and joyful. Involved in art and design for decades but unable to continue jewelry-making due to chronic pain, I discovered acrylic paint pouring six years ago—a creative process blending two of my loves, art and science. This craft became my new passion and therapeutic outlet. Today, I am tumor-free, thriving, and find joy and peace in sharing my abstract art. My colorful pieces reflect the emotions of my journey through cancer survivorship and coming to terms with my diagnosis.
Especially in difficult times, gather your courage, make needed changes, and nurture hope. Life holds surprising victories.
“For Hope to thrive, you need to feed it well… so pull yourself up to life’s table and feast, for today is a great day!”
