World-renowned artist and sculptor, Michael Kalish, says one year ago he was moved when he learned about COPD and the scope of those affected. His newfound knowledge, coupled with his artistic talents, inspired the creation of what became a year-long project entitled, 24M. “This is the first time I have been involved in a campaign like this. When DRIVE4COPDgave me the statistics, I knew I just had to help,” Kalish says.
Along with 25 crashmen, Kalish constructed one of the largest pieces of his career using license plates, his signature style.
“There is something organic about using license plates. This medium really lends itself well because it represents the breadth of the disease. Even the steel bases of the pinwheels are shaped as states and regions of the U.S.,” he says.
His skillful utilization of everyday objects exposes an issue that affects the average American. His down-to-earth, yet intricate style complements the message of the need for greater awareness about COPD: a disease that kills one American every four minutes.
“When I started this project I knew nothing about COPD, but along the way I have become so educated. I found that people close to me— whether they were collectors, friends, or family members—all knew someone with COPD. Everybody knows somebody with the disease,” he says.
After fifteen years of procuring materials across the U.S. for his artwork, Kalish realized he had cultivated many relationships with individuals who were affected by COPD—he just didn’t know it. When he announced his support of the cause through the monument, the response was overwhelming.
“People are so thankful and touched. I have received many calls and emails from individuals all over the country expressing their appreciation,” he says.
Kalish’s intent was to take the DRIVE4COPD™ logo—the pinwheel—and create an elegant, visually appealing piece that prompts viewers to ask questions. According to Kalish, greater depth and meaning is made when one can make a personal connection and interact with a piece. “The pinwheel is a symbol of breathing new life,” Kalish says, and that is exactly what he achieved with 24M.
After New York, 24M is slated to travel to Texas in late September/October, Florida in November and California in December—the four states with the highest prevalence of COPD in the nation.
Kalish expressed his excitement for the upcoming events.
“Each city will bring new experience and questions, and I am really looking forward to it,” he says.
COPD affects so many of us, either directly or indirectly, and like a license plate—every individual with COPD is unique.
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