Saber Draws Attention For Epilepsy Awareness Month
Ryan Weston Shook, better known as Saber, is an American legend in the art world for painting the world’s largest graffiti mural on the bank of the Los Angeles River. The mural was so large that satellites were needed to capture it, and it is highly visible from the East LA Interchange. Saber was 21 at the time he completed the mural.
Today, Saber continues his exquisite artwork and channels his passion to fuel social causes close to his heart. In November in honor of Epilepsy Awareness Month, Saber worked with End Epilepsy to help launch their first nationwide, multi-year campaign. The campaign, titled “Let’s Use Our Brains to End Epilepsy,” kicked off with a public, live viewing of Saber creating a massive art installation in honor of the cause. The campaign hopes to bring awareness to epilepsy and the brain, and the need to find a cure for it.
Saber’s art installation led to exclusive t-shirts by Omaze for the “All Brains are Beautiful” campaign. All proceeds are donated to the Epilepsy Foundation.
Saber has been public about having epilepsy and has shown how he has used the condition as an advantage to the ways he creates art, and has not let it get in the way of his creative passions. In Saber’s words “My art and my creativity are responsive to the way I feel. Obviously epilepsy and things I’m going through have been very tough, but it’s also led to some interesting conclusions. I can’t change the circumstances I’m in, other than to work towards something better, and I can share that message. That’s what I have to do. That’s why I’m here.”
Saber’s meaningful statement is one that should be carefully listened to and heeded in society today. In a world of constant media, fast talk, and continuous action without much thought, it is vital we as humans take a moment to breathe, observe our surroundings and slow down. Though this world is full of struggles and disappointment, it’s so important to take a moment of clarity and seek positive outcomes, as Saber thoughtfully mentions.
Saber’s admirable contributions to the epilepsy community are widely respected. His brilliant art inspires so many fellow artists and viewers. He especially is a role model to those suffering with epilepsy to purse a creative outlet and never let anything get in the way of your dreams. He and his vibrant art continue to help and inspire many people in all walks of life.