FriendenArts, founded in 2016, empowers disadvantaged youth to unlock their artistic potential, nurture optimism, and shape positive change through visual art. We guide them towards financial independence through fair-income opportunities from selling their artwork and merchandise, enabling them to thrive in their life journeys.
OUR STORY
Meet Sook Yee and Edmund, Founders of FriendenArts
In a world where adversity often sets our path, art became our beacon of hope. Driven by our unwavering love for our sons and our commitment to making a difference, we founded FriendenArts to empower disadvantaged young people through the transformative power of artistic expression.
Our story began with the heart-wrenching diagnosis of our second son, Branden, with a serious terminal rare medical condition at a very young age. The uncertainty of Branden's future and the fragility of life itself prompted us to seek ways to fill his days with meaning and joy. Amidst doctor's appointments, therapy, and hospital stays, Sook Yee turned to art as a form of solace and expression for Branden. Unknowingly, in those moments of vulnerability, the power of art began to unfold, giving Branden a sense of meaning and a way to cope.
"Our story began with the heart-wrenching diagnosis of our second son, Branden, with a serious terminal rare medical condition at a very young age."
Despite worsening severe paralysis, chronic complex health complications, and learning and reading disabilities, Branden displayed innate artistic talent from a young age. Creating vibrant and imaginative pieces gave him the freedom to communicate his thoughts and emotions beyond his physical limitations and life challenges. As he honed his skills, we witnessed the transformative impact of art on Branden's well-being, offering healing, resilience, and a renewed sense of purpose. Today, drug therapy stabilizes his condition, enabling him to thrive as a symbol of resilience and hope through creative expression. His artwork, sought-after by many collectors, inspires us to embrace our passions unreservedly.
Branden's remarkable artistic journey inspired us to establish FriendenArts to empower disadvantaged children and youth through artistic expression to tell their stories, be optimistic, and make positive changes in their lives.
"Branden's remarkable artistic journey inspired us to establish FriendenArts to empower disadvantaged children and youth through artistic expression to tell their stories, be optimistic, and make positive changes in their lives."
When our older son, Jaden, was diagnosed with two serious rare conditions, growth hormone deficiency and pituitary tumor, creativity and art once again became a lifeline. Art provided a medium for him to channel his emotions, explore his dreams, and navigate difficult periods of uncertainty and dejection with grace. Today, he is responding well to medical treatment and has gained public recognition for his creative works.
"The human spirit can overcome adversity, and art is the bridge to a world of possibility."
FriendenArts began humbly, even anonymously in its early years. We believe our programs can help disadvantaged children and youth unlock their inner potential, gain newfound confidence and agency, and change perceptions of what's possible in the face of adversity. The human spirit can overcome adversity, and art is the bridge to a world of possibility.
Join us in supporting FriendenArts. Together, we can embrace challenges, nurture dreams, and make a lasting impact by believing in the potential of every individual.
🧡Sook Yee & Edmund
