As part of an unconventional art campaign, Powelson asked the public last September to vote on his Web site for which work in the series to donate to the Primary Children's Medical Center. Nearly 1,200 voters selected "Imagination" which now hangs in the Primary Children's Medical Center's Behavioral Unit. Powelson donated the painting in memory of Ben Schmidt, a childhood friend.

Powelson and Schmidt grew up together taking the same classes, listening to the same music, even attending a Sadie Hawkins dance together, both in wheelchairs when neither could find a date.

But, there was one thing the boys did not share: Schmidt was terminally ill.

Schmidt died at age 18 of Freidreich's Ataxia, a rare genetic disease that damaged his heart. Even though he died half of Todd's lifetime ago, Powelson still thinks about Schmidt every day.

"I'm glad that my artwork will be placed in the Behavioral Unit where kids are treated for things like depression and substance abuse," Powelson said. "I'd rather see my work hanging at Primary Children's Medical Center with Ben's name on it than in an art gallery. I believe in the healing power of art, and I hope that it brings some light into children's lives as they are working on recovery."

"We would like to thank Todd for donating this beautiful painting to benefit patients, families and the staff at Primary Children's Medical Center," said Marie Hendriksen, Gift in Kind Coordinator. "Todd's artwork will help comfort and entertain anyone who sees it."

Powelson launched the campaign in memory of his friend, called "Dreams for Schmidty." The artist teamed with SLUG Magazine to buy ad space to show the series of 12 paintings, with a new piece to be added each month through August.

Also, Todd will participate in the Chalk Art Festival occurring at city library locations (except the Main branch) on May 10. At this event, participants are encouraged to "create a story of their Life."

On the WebTo see more of Todd Powelson's artwork visit www.toddpowelson.com.