I created a series of paintings beginning in late 2014 as a way to reflect on and respond to my brother-in-law’s experience with early onset Alzheimer’s disease. My brother-in law, his family and their friends, were several years into this journey when I began these paintings. They continue to support him as the disease progresses.
I’ve had a number of years now to think about the disease and its impact on our extended family. When we first became aware of his diagnosis, it seemed frivolous to paint anything other than dark, despairing images. As I worked, and as time passed, I framed questions to help me explore and create something beyond darkness….
"If the notes are muddled and fading, can the song still be found?"
“If we were raised on the grid, how do we find our way when the markers disappear?”
The original 12 paintings include images of fractured instruments and fragments of hymns. The theme of these images reflect the passion for music within our family. Later paintings in the series were in response to expressionistic line drawings done by my brother-in-law during his experience with the disease.
My paintings have generated conversation with others. I have become aware that the experience of having a loved one with this Alzheimer's is both individual and universal. I am grateful for the ways my visual exploration connects me to others on this journey.
Can the Song Still be Found?
Raised on the Grid
Searching for the Grid
Shifting Fault Lines
Making the Mark I
Making the Mark II
