Text by Amber Phelps Bondaroff, with contributions from Alana Moore
While the artists in this exhibition share a common diagnosis, they are, as individuals, so much more than defined by this disease. As lead artists, on every occasion, we strived to meet people exactly where they were at the time. Collaboratively, we developed individual projects rather than prescribing one activity or medium to everyone in the group. This process engendered conversation and listening while attempting to remain in the present moment. We explored hobbies, interests, and talents, while gently encouraging deeper explorations of what was already present. Our plans invariably shifted from month to month, and from moment to moment. The present moment is a slippery thing, fleeting, and everchanging.
The work in this exhibition represents the culmination of over a year of resiliency and time spent building relationships. Through time spent together, we have learned so much about and from one another. We fostered, forged, and fortified relationships through creative acts and shared experiences.
Care and community-building are at the core of this exhibition. The artworks are accessories to the relationships fostered through their making. We hope that this network of support continues to evolve and thrive, well beyond the physical framework of this project.
“Sometimes artists just need a quiet space and some materials to create… [as lead artists our role included] gently encouraging each artist to find their joy…”
– Alana Moore
