July 11, 2025

Charleston Artists Overcoming Health Challenges Through Creativity

News Summary

Local artists in Charleston, including Eric Carnahan, Fontaine Weyman, and Gino Castillo, are showcasing resilience as they navigate significant health challenges. Through their respective battles with cancer and chronic illness, they find solace and purpose in their art, contributing to the community’s cultural landscape. Carnahan promotes a cancer memorial park, Weyman creates music, and Castillo shares positivity through his jazz. Their stories highlight the power of creativity as a coping mechanism and a source of inspiration for others.

Charleston – Local artists in Charleston are demonstrating remarkable resilience and creativity as they navigate through significant health challenges. Three individuals—Eric Carnahan, Fontaine Weyman, and Gino Castillo—are using their artistic talents to cope with their personal battles, while simultaneously contributing to the community’s cultural landscape.

Eric Carnahan, an artist and a resident of Charleston, was diagnosed with multiple myeloma cancer in 2021. This disease affects the plasma cells in the body, severely impacting the immune system. Following his diagnosis, Carnahan underwent a bone marrow transplant to combat the aggressive nature of the disease. Unfortunately, this intensive medical procedure came with complications, nearly costing him his life. He is currently facing stage 5 kidney failure and is waiting to qualify for at-home kidney dialysis along with a kidney transplant.

During his cancer treatment, Carnahan found himself unable to engage in his usual passion for painting. Instead, he redirected his focus to writing, allowing him to express his changing experiences and emotions. As he began to recover, he returned to art, creating intricate portraits that depict abandoned homes. In these artworks, he captures the distinctive characteristics and feelings associated with each home, reflecting a deep connection to both the subject and the human experience. To further honor those affected by cancer, Carnahan has proposed the establishment of a cancer memorial park in Charleston, inspired by the Cancer Survivors Park in Greenville.

Fontaine Weyman, a local singer-songwriter who performs under the name Saint Joan, has also faced her share of health challenges. Over the past 15 years, she has battled a chronic illness, eventually receiving a diagnosis of Lyme disease after years of undiagnosed symptoms. Her condition includes multiple seizures and even a mini-stroke, which have greatly impacted her life and abilities. Nevertheless, Weyman remains dedicated to her healing process and continues to create music that resonates with her journey. She highlights the significance of not measuring one’s struggles against the experiences of others. For her, the creative community serves as a vital source of support and inspiration during difficult times.

Gino Castillo, a talented Afro-Cuban jazz percussionist, experienced his own health crisis when he was diagnosed with leukemia in 2023. After undergoing treatment, he is currently in remission and is refocusing his efforts on his music career while working on multiple studio albums. Castillo’s treatment journey was arduous, requiring hospitalization and extensive physical therapy. Due to complications from an infection, he endured a partial amputation, which forced him to relearn how to walk. Despite these challenges, Castillo expresses gratitude for his recovery and uses his music as a channel to spread positivity and love within the community.

Across these stories, a common thread of resilience, creativity, and supportive community emerges. All three artists embody the spirit of overcoming adversity through their art. Their experiences not only demonstrate personal strength but also highlight the communal bonds formed through shared challenges. In the face of their respective health battles, Carnahan, Weyman, and Castillo have exemplified how creativity can serve as both a coping mechanism and an expressive outlet, allowing them to contribute significantly to Charleston’s vibrant arts scene while navigating their personal journeys.

As these artists continue to engage with their craft and the community, they remain sources of inspiration for others, reminding everyone that creativity can flourish even in the most difficult of times. Through their art, they also advocate for greater awareness and support for health-related issues, enriching the cultural fabric of Charleston.

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Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON

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