by Laura R
9. August 2011 09:34
A black bag with sleek leather handles and a detailed, colorful illustration of a radiant peacock. Beautiful pink lines grace the surface, tendril-like, weaving their way visually through magnificent paisley patterns. This bag is held by a healthy looking young woman named Yali, the creator of CARRY ON©, a special series of bags that are all created with the intention of charitable donations.

Currently Yali is a 20-year-old student of the University of Pennsylvania, on track to pursue a degree in nursing as an advanced-practice pediatric oncology nurse. Yali herself has been a survivor of a life threatening cancer at a young age. During her battle, as a hobby, she began creating a series of handbags; by age 17, Yali was given the opportunity to partner with Kate Spade, by the Make-A-Wish foundation to create a beautiful black and paisley bag, which raised 50,000 for the foundation. The two also earned “donor of the year” honors.
From beginning as a hobbyist, to becoming a fundraiser for charitable organizations, Yali has continued to make handbags for a cause. She has helped raise over $92,000 dollars to assist children and cancer patients.

Yali has recently teamed up with the Children's Memorial Hospital and the MCA to feature her handbags to continue to assist in raising money. The museum will host a special event entitled Celebrate The Art of Healing: Special Event with Yali. The social occasion will take place on Tuesday August 23, 5 pm, located in the MCA atrium. Her tote bags, Yali’s CARRY ON© will be available at the MCA store through September. The proceeds will benefit K.I.D.S.S for Kids (Kindness is Doing Something Special for Kids.
http://www.yaliscarryon.com/
Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
220 East Chicago Avenue
Chicago, Il 60611
312.280.2660 (main)
312.397.4010 (box office)