Art of the Brain at the UCLA Foundation is a non-profit organization. Our mission is to raise money for the UCLA Neuro-Oncology Program's brain cancer research, to raise public awareness of this deadly disease, and spotlight the talent, strength and courage of our brain cancer patients.

Art of the Brain was founded by Judi Kaufman, an international community activist and a brain cancer survivor, and Dr. Timothy Cloughesy, Director of the UCLA Neuro-Oncology Program. Art of the Brain is supported by a group of dedicated volunteers whom we lovingly salute as the "Brain Buddies."   An unprecedented and unique aspect of the organization is the fact that Art of the Brain is composed primarily of a network of “illness mentors” -- Brain Buddies who not only assist with volunteering their time to make the annual gala a success, but also volunteer as personal illness mentors to individuals or families who are stricken with brain cancer. 

Art of the Brain is a patient-driven organization, celebrating art for those who have confronted brain cancer, either through their own experience or through a family member or friend.

We are dedicated to raising money for UCLA Neuro-Oncology Program's brain cancer research, under the direction of Dr. Timothy Cloughesy. Money raised through Art of the Brain has helped Dr. Cloughesy develop one of the premier research laboratories in the world, where he partners with neurologists, neurosurgeons, neuroscientists, and cancer researchers to eradicate this often-fatal disease.

Art of the Brain and the UCLA Neuro-Oncology Program is committed to this initiative, which has successfully garnered almost $3 million for brain cancer research since its inception in 2000.