The Secret Life of an Artist

Bruce Bauer, MD, NorthShore University HealthSytem’s (NorthShore) head of Plastic Surgery grew up in a family that nurtured both his medical interests and his artistic talents. An internationally recognized expert in pediatric reconstructive surgery, Dr. Bauer is not only changing the lives of his patients every day through his medical expertise – he also uses his talent as an artist specializing in handcrafted jewelry.

Dr. Bauer’s unique ability to think and see in three dimensions will soon be on display in another forum outside of the operating room – as an emerging artist at the American Craft Exposition (ACE), August 22-25, 2013 at the Henry Crown Sports Pavilion in Evanston (2311 Campus Drive, Evanston, Illinois 60208).

This juried, three-day exhibition and sale of fine craft includes one-of-a-kind pieces, luxury collections and uniquely creative artwork from the country’s leading artists, showcasing new achievements in jewelry, ceramics, metal, fashion wearables, glass, furniture, fiber decorative, leather, wood, mixed media and baskets.

Put on by The Auxiliary of NorthShore at Evanston & Glenbrook Hospitals, ACE is the only volunteer-produced Exposition of its caliber in the country with more than 100 volunteers working year-round to present this amazing show. It will be the first show Dr. Bauer has ever exhibited in and one of great pride as all funds raised benefit ovarian cancer research at NorthShore. This is the first time in ACE’s history that a NorthShore physician has participated as an artist.

While Dr. Bauer has long had an interest in creating jewelry, he set his sights on applying to the prestigious juried show last year and began spending more time and energy in his home studio. “My wife and I have been going to ACE for years. I’m thrilled to be invited; it’s very exciting to pick this as the first show I’ve ever applied to. My creative energy has been tremendous lately,” he said.

Dr. Bauer’s work is sculptural and reflects his sense of wonder with the natural world, and an interest in Asian arts. A recently finished piece includes a crane he carved from a 100-year-old walrus tusk.

ACE returns to the Henry Crown Sports Pavilion on Northwestern University’s Evanston Campus, Thursday, August 22 with a Collectors’ Hour from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. followed by a Benefit Preview Party from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m. The Show runs throughout the weekend:  Friday, August 23, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Saturday, August 24, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday, August 25, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets are $15 for a three-day pass or $13 when purchased in advance online. For more information or to make a donation, please visit americancraftexpo.org or call (224) 364-7270.

About NorthShore University HealthSystem

Headquartered in Evanston, Illinois, NorthShore University HealthSystem (NorthShore) is a comprehensive, fully integrated, healthcare delivery system that serves the Chicago region. The system includes four hospitals in Evanston, Glenview, Highland Park and Skokie. NorthShore employs approximately 10,000 and has 2,400 affiliated physicians, including an 800+ physician, multispecialty group practice with over 100 office locations. Further, NorthShore supports teaching and research as the principal teaching affiliate for the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine.

The NorthShore Research Institute focuses on clinical and translational research, including leadership in clinical trials and medical informatics. The NorthShore University HealthSystem Foundation is the primary philanthropic entity of NorthShore. The Foundation raises charitable contributions and engages volunteer friends in support of NorthShore’s ongoing mission to preserve and improve human life.

NorthShore has significant capabilities in a wide spectrum of clinical programs, including Kellogg Cancer Center, NorthShore Neurological Institute, cardiovascular care, orthopaedics, high-risk maternity and pediatrics. NorthShore is a Magnet recognized organization, the first in Illinois designated as a system to receive this prestigious honor that demonstrates excellence in nursing and high standards in patient care. NorthShore is a national leader in the implementation of innovative technologies, including electronic medical records (EMR). In 2003, NorthShore was among the first in the country to successfully launch a system-wide EMR with demonstrable benefits in quality, safety, efficiency and service to patients. NorthShore has been recognized by multiple national organizations for this notable achievement.