Artist Turns Infant Medical Helmets Into Works of Art

A Washington State woman has been using her artistic talents to brighten the lives of thousands of babies and their families.
Back in 1996, a friend approached Paula Lazardo with a unique request. Their child would need to wear a medial helmet due to plagiocephaly â a common disorder causing a babyâs head to have a flattened appearance. The helmet would need to be worn for several months, so Lazardo knew it needed to be something special.
Once completed, a doctor saw her first creation and knew Lazardoâs talents could help so many more. The condition impacts around 10% of newborns in America, so while this was her first encounter with the medical helmets, it certainly wouldnât be the last.
Since 1996, Lazardo has hand-painted over 3,000 of the typically mundane medical devices, all thanks to that initial interest by the treating physician. âHe saw value in having the helmet painted for his clients,â Lazardo told HeartThreads. âIt was just one of those snowball things⌠and now itâs virtually 99 percent of what I do is paint for babies! Which is the best job ever.â
Beyond brightening the lives of the children and likely everyone they encounter, her creations are unique to the owner. From motorcycle helmets to Captain America gear, the artist has created some truly incredible works, often in just 48 hours due to the nature of the equipment and its immediate need. But for Lazardo, itâs all worth it. âThatâs what I love about the art that Iâve been able to do in my life: Itâs always been for other people. Itâs been able to make other people happy. Thatâs why Iâve got the best job!â
She has even created smaller helmets so that a childâs doll can have a matching cap.

With so many satisfied little customers, itâs easy to see why so many parents have turned to her over the years.
To learn more about her incredible work, visit Lazardoâs Facebook page.