I’m still thinking about last Friday’s vernissage at La Petite Mort Gallery – what a wonderful turnout! We took a look at artwork (prints, etching, watercolours, sketchbooks) by Christine Ross and heard some powerful stories about mental illness. Although the exhibition is called Christine’s Escape, it was clear that a variety of artists use their creative process as a means of escaping the ravages of mental illness, be it their own or that of a loved one. What came out of the evening was an emphasis on the need to share our stories so that no one suffers in isolation. Some of us can be the storytellers, while others take on the role of listeners. As long as we engage, we can help each other lighten at least some of the darkness.
Christine Ross, who is now retired from her art, was a prolific artist. It is clear that her practice provided her a much-needed haven. Imagine if she, and artists like her, could create unimpeded. What we do know, although she might not, is that her story might help to remove a few obstacles for others.
I think I chose the portrait above because at a glance it will make me think of Christine, her struggle and her gifts. It will remind me of my own mother’s struggle, and the gift of my friendship with Christine’s daughter with whom I am able to share my stories. This portrait will remind me of the storytelling, the mothers who went walkabout and the daughters who grappled to make sense of it all and to keep their mothers safe.
Christine Ross, who is now retired from her art, was a prolific artist. It is clear that her practice provided her a much-needed haven. Imagine if she, and artists like her, could create unimpeded. What we do know, although she might not, is that her story might help to remove a few obstacles for others.
I think I chose the portrait above because at a glance it will make me think of Christine, her struggle and her gifts. It will remind me of my own mother’s struggle, and the gift of my friendship with Christine’s daughter with whom I am able to share my stories. This portrait will remind me of the storytelling, the mothers who went walkabout and the daughters who grappled to make sense of it all and to keep their mothers safe.