Growth = Life in Color
2023
11″ W x 14″ H
Acrylic on wood
Difficult life circumstances can provoke us to grow in ways we would not otherwise; and, this growth leads us to see life more clearly, appreciating experiences in a more colorful way.
I gather stories of people who suffer from neurological, cognitive, or mental health issues and create art in response as a way to advocate and encourage.
“I have a meningioma located close to the brain stem. My tumor is sort of wrapped around an artery in the brain (one of the reasons it isn’t operable).
… I experience tingling over my right cheek, down to my ear and across to upper lip. It isn’t painful, but if I visualise it, it is a bit like a sparkler you see at a bonfire night or firework exploding, but without the pain.
… Life is flowing through the tumor and therefore I can expect a kind of new life to come as a result of having it. In other words, it is somehow important that it isn’t “just” a tumor parked on a bit of the meninges, like a limpet, but there is life blood flowing through it… So whatever transpires, I hold to the thought that perhaps this is important in a positive way.”
– Jane (New Zealand)
About the Neuron Series
My expressive paintings on neuron-centric subject matter advocate for communities in the realms of rare disease, neuroscience, and mental health. The content originated with my daughter’s rare genetic disorder. I became intrigued by the complexity and beauty of the human brain, inspired by the hope of its ability to re-circuit around inflicted damage.
I bring expressionistic, experiential fine art to the scientific community, yet incorporate scientific research and structure into the world of artistic expression. While the genre of digital neuro imaging is emerging, my unique approach weaves this ground-breaking content with human experience, creativity and painterly tradition - supporting fine art’s foothold amidst the growing influence of technology. My imagery intentionally blurs the lines of the abstract and physiological - recognizable as neurons to those with a trained eye but inclusive to all who are curious.
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