Visual Narrative

I created this gossamer robe to convey a personal narrative about aspects of my life. It tells a story through the use of collected and found materials that were combined to convey a visual and tactile tale. When words fail, personal narratives may be told through artistic languages. In this case, the visual and textured language of fabric, tinkling buttons and other objects reveal and embody vignettes retold through the process of creative work.

First Steps: Setting the table, an open invitation

Art classes are stirring and evocative. I continue to take painting and printmaking classes from time to time to challenge myself and to develop my artistic fluency. Yet, despite my training, I do experience profound moments of uncertainty and fear within the learning context. Imagine then how a less experienced person might feel when invited to join an art class. Furthermore, imagine how a person with Alzheimer's might perceive such an opportunity.

My first assumption about people with Alzheimer's is that they are not patients (as I so often hear them called), but rather, they are people with Alzheimer's. Secondly, they have lived rich and interesting personal and professional lives. All of the people with Alzheimer's whom I have known (and I have worked with many) have held demanding professional careers and raised families. They are knowledgeable and proficient. Finally, I have unending respect and admiration for these individuals because they suffer in profound ways, while striving to remain connected and active within their social world.

Because communication can be profoundly disrupted, as a result of the disease, it is important to help those with Alzheimer's establish alternative modes of communication and expression. The visual arts can be used as a very direct, stimulating and satisfying mode of expression, which furthermore may serve as a catalyst for storytelling and reminiscence.

Extending the invitation to paint to a person with Alzheimer's takes place in at least two ways. The first is to ask directly, "would you like to paint today?" The second, is to demonstrate the invitation through the use of an organized and inviting space. In the photograph above the table is set for 5 participants. Each place setting is clearly defined, as with Montessori's micro-sphere. Each participant is ensured a space with materials that will be used by him or her alone. Each space in its definition is inviting and orderly. Such an organized and welcoming space implicitly states the value and importance of each participant.

Establishing the work space

Sunday October 16, 2011

I am using some of my own imagery to reflect upon and explore themes related to isolation. This is an essential aspect of the experience of Alzheimer's, because people with dementia do experience feelings of isolation, depression and loss. Despite the gradual diminishment of cognitive capacity, people with Alzheimer's (and related forms of dementia) remain persons first and foremost who retain a sense of themselves within the broad scope of their lived experience.

Fall 2011

With the completion of my MA thesis, I am beginning to consider ways in which to develop my work which continues. I am still painting on a weekly basis with 3 individuals who have Alzheimer's. Despite disease progression, those with whom I am painting continue to explore painting process, technique and composition. It's fascinating to see their level of satisfaction with the program. Furthermore, they continue to view themselves as learners who continue to benefit from the creative work and the social interaction. This is so essential for people in general - to remain active and connected with social groups - for the elderly and in particular those living with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.