ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — A St. Petersburg artist and retired teacher has turned her personal battle with throat cancer into a powerful message.

Lisa Bagley is now sharing her journey through an interactive art exhibit at the Morean Arts Center which starts Jan. 17 and runs through Feb. 15. 

What You Need To Know

  • Lisa Bagley survived throat cancer and has dedicated the last two years to fighting the disease and her art

  • "Hopes and Fears: My Diary of Cancer" is her latest showcase featured at the Morean Arts Center in St. Pete

  • Bagley said she hopes others share their stories of how the disease has affected them or their families

The exhibit called "Hopes and Fears: My Diary of Cancer" also serves as a fundraiser for cancer research at Moffitt Cancer Center.

Bagley talked to Spectrum News about the inspiration that led to the exhibit where art meets healing and community connection.

During the visit, as she prepared to move items to the place of the exhibit, Bagley rang a replica of the iconic bell cancer patients shake signifying the end of treatments.

It is a moment cancer patients hope for when they start.

For the last two years, battling cancer has been her job. But for decades before that, teaching art was her focus.

Her latest creations are her most personal yet. 

“As you’re going through treatments and the days go by and the days go by, you are feeling miserable,” she said. “Ringing that bell becomes a goal, and having goals and positive experiences is so important for your mental health.”

She transformed her cancer journey into an art exhibit featuring sculptures, paintings and the title piece — a self-portrait called hopes and fears.

The exhibit at Morean Arts Center invites visitors to reflect on their own experiences. 

Bagley wanted it to be more than just her story. 

“In addition to the artwork, I also wanted an interactive piece because my story is not unique,” she said.

While throat cancer made it difficult for Bagley to talk, she still had a voice. In a journal, she processed her emotions and documented her journey. She is now sharing those writings. 

“Some of the journal entries are filled with hurt and pain, and some of them are lighthearted where I found something to enjoy,” she said.

She also wanted others to honor loved ones who have battled cancer.

“So that gave me the idea, why don’t I create a bunch of ribbons and people can come tie a knot for someone they know or for themselves, that have fought cancer,” she said.

For Bagley, it is not just about looking back on her own battle but embracing the future with hope.

“You never know what the future holds,” she said. “I think you need to enjoy life and your bucket list.”

It is an exhibit offering a space for reflection, healing and connection. Her journey is proof that art can truly transform pain into purpose.