atercolors, pencil sketches, sculptures or abstract paintings—whatever medium they choose, artists have the unique ability to express personal experiences and philosophies.

When adding fear, hope and courage that stems from facing a serious neurological condition, artwork can bring a condition alive in imaginative ways.

The Epilepsy Foundation and Ortho-McNeil Neurologics, Inc., sponsored the Expressions of Courage® art contest, to encourage people with epilepsy to submit original artwork that expresses their feelings of living with a potentially debilitating condition. More than 200 people submitted artwork for this year’s contest. Entries ranged in form and style, including such pieces as abstract drawings, traditional paintings and computer-generated art.

Expressions of Courage Slideshow

Move your mouse over each picture to learn about the artist.

“The Expressions of Courage contest is a way to celebrate the accomplishments of everyone living with epilepsy,” said Eric R. Hargis, president and chief executive officer of the Epilepsy Foundation. “People who enter the contest have varying experiences with epilepsy—some have well-controlled seizures, others have seizures that are difficult to manage. They all wish to share their feelings with us through their art. We appreciate their efforts and are proud to recognize their talents and courage.”

Contest entries were categorized into three age groups: children ages 12 years old and younger; teens ages 13-17 years old; and adults 18 years of age and older. Winners were chosen based on the entrant’s creativity and ability to demonstrate feelings of living with epilepsy through art.

Winning artwork is on display in an online gallery at expressionsofcourage.com. In addition, several winning entries are featured in calendars and coffee-table books.