World-renowned artist Derek Hess has announced the release of his latest work, titled Medi-Teddy.

Created in his signature style line drawing, Medi-Teddy features a teddy bear wearing a protective mask, and bearing his iconic angel wings, along with the text, “We Heart (love) Our Healthcare Workers.” The image, which is being sold in the form of art print and t-shirt, is available at www.derekhess.com.

50% of all proceeds from Medi-Teddy product line sales will be donated to Direct Release, a charity working with public health authorities, nonprofit organizations and businesses in the U.S. and globally to provide personal protective equipment and essential medical items to health workers responding to coronavirus (COVID-19).

Hess says, “The selflessness of our doctors, nurses, and first responders gets all my respect. Instead of running away, they run towards, often without the required safety equipment. I was inspired to do something for the cause. If it wasn’t for them, no telling how bad this would be. What I have to offer is my artwork, so Medi-Teddy is the outcome. I’m proud to create something that allows us all to show our solidarity and provide some financial support to an organization that’s truly helping where it’s needed most.”

About Direct Relief:
Direct Relief is coordinating with public health authorities, nonprofit organizations and businesses in the U.S. and globally to provide personal protective equipment and essential medical items to health workers responding to coronavirus (COVID-19). Direct Relief is a humanitarian aid organization, active in all 50 states and more than 80 countries, with a mission to improve the health and lives of people affected by poverty or emergencies – without regard to politics, religion, or ability to pay.

About Derek Hess:
Derek Hess’ distinctive, emotionally-charged artwork is a staple in the world of music and art. Hess got his start creating promotional flyers for shows he was booking at a local venue in his hometown of Cleveland, Ohio, and his work soon gained the attention of concert promoters and bands, leading to a fruitful 25-year career with pieces in the permanent collections of the Louvre, GRAMMY Museum and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. In addition to countless album covers, apparel designs, and gallery shows all over the world, Hess has been featured on Vice, TLC, MTV, Fuse, VH1, Alternative Press, Newsweek and Juxtapoz. Throughout his career, Hess hasn’t been shy about sharing his on-going struggle with a dual diagnosis and has become an outspoken voice for mental health and addiction awareness through the creation of his art festival ACTING OUT!, an award-winning documentary titled ‘Forced Perspective’, and the release of his latest book, ’31 Days In May’, created to help remove the stigma around mental illness.