Creative Expression - Identity - Mixed Media

I have been experimenting and working steadily in the studio, which I realize I have not shared yet.  I am still settling in creatively, stretching my wings and finding where I feel comfortable but also pushing myself to find the uncomfortable a place to dwell, as that is where some of the growth takes place.

Trying something different enables you to see what can be an inspiration and lead you on a road that you never though you would travel.

I find working with textures, clay, and fabric opening up areas of creativity that I had never thought of and I am enjoying the process.  I am still drawing, sketching, journalling and trying out oh so many different techniques, there isn't enough hours in the day unfortunately, cause I enjoy them all, and why not?

This piece represents for me the idea that we can forget who we are, our dreams, our goals, our desires.  The same people that wore so many labels, called by so many different names, but the very truth to our existence lost under stuff, under activities, responsibilities, untruths, deceptions under-valuing our lives as we fight for a sense of who we are.

I have more work to share, excited as I also have some pieces of art at a couple of galleries here in Barbados, and will also teaching online and would love it if you came and joined me.

I is for Identity

Holding on to your identity is important when you become a carer otherwise you can loose yourself in the role. We have so many lables within society that the true essence of who you are becomes a distant memory. There was a time in the early years of mums illness that I felt like the more I did for my mum the more I lost a piece of myself,  and was totally consumed.  It reminded me of the fragility of life, I knew that I had to hold on to who I was.

Growing up I was looking forward to relating to my mum as a mother myself, going to her for advice and sharing the joy of watching my children – her grandchildren grow up.  As a carer you loose your identity in society, the cared for have carers - an entity in themselves and many no longer have family members around.  Communities fragmented and the extended family becomes devalued and a thing of the past as the elderly are seen as a burdon, rather than filled with wisdom, memories and insight.

I found separating the roles helps and enables me to still enjoy my mothers company despite how dependant she becomes.

Words so far....

A is for Alzheimer’s, B is for Behaviour, C is for Carer, D is for Dependant, E is for Enough, F is for Fear, G is for Guilt, H is for Health Professionals

These posts are part of the A-Z Challenge taking place during the month of April.  I have been sharing about my experience as a carer to a mother with Dementia.  If you would like to know more join the Arts in Health Network and also check out my website for information on some of the work I have done with Creativity and Dementia.