Brilliance 2022: A Virtual Exhibition of Creative Works from the Global Brain Tumour Community

A virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

November 2022

Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

- a noun form of the adjective brilliant, meaning outstanding, exceptional, or magnificent.

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Contents Alan Vickery. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7, 18-19 Alexia Trzyna. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74-75 Ben Winters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28-29, 114-115 Carita Birch. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110-111 Devon Rae. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24-25, 72-73, 92-93 Eric Rykiel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118-119 Geoff Davey. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-27 Giuseppe Raschiani. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34-35, 70-71, 94-95 Iain Myrans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38-39 Isaac Butterfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68-69 Jami Millon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9, 22-23, 82-83 Jennifer Neale. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42-43, 76-77, 96-97 Jenny Hyslop. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-21, 84-85 Judy Brusse. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40-41 Julia Robertson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44-45 Kate Coatsworth. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46-47 Kate Winters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78-79 Kimberly Myrans. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50-51 Kristen Ferguson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108-109 Kumiko Yokozuka. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48-49 Lillie Pakzad-Shahabi. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100-101 M K Nicholas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36-37, 58-59, 102-103 Mara Bergamini . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106-107 Noam Butterfield . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 116-117 Parikshit Mehra. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30-31, 52-53, 104-105 Rebecca Gordon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54-55 Renee Prescott . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-11, 86-87, 112-113 Rosemary Cashman. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-13 Ross Morum. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-15 Sandra E Ball. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-17, 66-67, 90-91 Sharon Holesh. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56-57 Smita Bhatia. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-61, 64-65, 98-99 Tomomi Orikasa. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 80-81 Yaron Butterfield. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32-33, 62-63, 88-89 3

Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

“I found I could say things with colour and shapes that I couldn’t say

any other way.”

Georgia O’Keefe (American modernist artist, 15 November 1887 to 6 March 1986)

We wish to thank the following for their support of the IBTA’s work this year:

*

GW Pharmaceuticals *Supporting the IBTA podcast series only

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

November 2022

Welcome to the Second “Brilliance!“ International Art Exhibition Following the success of the 2021 “Brilliance!” virtual art exhibition, the International Brain Tumour Alliance is pleased to again showcase the creativity and talent of the international brain tumour community. In the following pages you will see the work and read the words of patients, their family members and friends, health care professionals and scientists. All have found a way to distill or expand upon their experience within the world of brain tumours or to find a new perspective on life through the challenges they have faced.

“Brilliance! 2022” features the work of 34 artists from nine countries; some have never shown their work in a public exhibition before. These works express uniquely personal responses to a situation that is common to all the artists but experienced differently.

The creative impulse in each artist opens a window to diverse feelings and experiences. By sharing these artistic representations, a common bond is formed and all who contribute cease to be alone.

We hope that you find resonance and inspiration in the words and images of the “Brilliance! 2022” virtual art exhibition.

The Brilliance Exhibition Committee and Exhibition Curators:

Kathy Oliver Chair/Co-Director, International Brain Tumour Alliance (IBTA) Maureen Daniels

BScN, RN, IBTA Senior Advisor

Rosemary Cashman Sharon Lamb

MA, MSc(A), NP(A), IBTA Senior Advisor

RN, IBTA Senior Advisor

The “Brilliance!” catalogue has been designed by Edwina Kelly of Edwina Kelly Design (edwina@edwinakellydesign.co.uk) Copyright of the individual artworks included in the “Brilliance!” catalogue remains with the individual artists who submitted them (save where otherwise specifically stated and acknowledged). None of the images contained in the “Brilliance!” catalogue may be reproduced in any other form whatsoever without the express permission of the artist (or, where the copyright is acknowledged to belong to a third party, the express permission of the third party shall be required). Please contact kathy@theibta.org for further information.

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Alan Vickery Ireland Title of creative work: “Deer” Medium: Infinite Painter on TAB S8 Size of creative work: 30 cm x 30 cm

I am 52 years old. In January 2016 I was diagnosed with a brain tumor called a craniopharyngioma.

In 2017 the tumor was partly removed.

Since then I have lost my business of 27 years and I am on a large amount of medication.

My whole life has changed since that date.

This picture is a drawing of a deer alone in Phoenix Park, Dublin.

Alan Vickery

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Jami Millon United States Title of creative work: “Don’t Tell Us We Can’t…”

Medium: photograph Size of creative work: 3 inches x 5 inches

I have survived with a grade 3 oligodendroglioma for four-and-a-half years. In spite of the challenges, I am thriving.

Statements about bumblebees have been going around since the 1930’s such as “bumblebees can’t fly”. Just like the bumblebee, prove people wrong.

Brain cancer patients CAN survive! This bumblebee is living its best life in a cucumber flower.

Jami Millon

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Renee Prescott New Zealand Title of creative work: “Garden Easter Bunny Cookies” Medium: vanilla cookies, decorated with royal icing.

Hand painted rabbits using edible food safe paints.

Size of creative work: various

I was diagnosed with a brain tumour in May this year.

I started my own cake business two years ago called “I Dream of Cake”. Since then I have made many cakes and royal iced cookies. Easter cookies are my favourite cookies to create.

Renee Prescott

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Rosemary Cashman Canada Title of creative work: “Mono No Aware: Triptych” Medium: photography, water colour, pencil, coloured pencil, ink Size of creative work: 8 inches x 8 inches (each piece)

I have learned so much about life from my patients and their families. Most especially, I have been inspired to live life as well as possible every day, and to consider what defines a well-lived life for me.

As a nurse practitioner in neurooncology for 25 years, I have been fortunate to meet many resilient, creative and generous individuals. They have helped me to be grateful for every day and to find my place in the beauty and impermanence of the natural world.

Rosemary Cashman

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Ross Morum New Zealand Title of creative work: “Notting Hill Festival (Samba)” Medium: pencil Size of creative work: 21 cm x 29.7 cm

In 2008 I became aware of my brain tumour, when I had a seizure, while I was driving. I was diagnosed with a grade 2 astrocytoma in my right frontal lobe. In 2011 I had a recurrence and after a second surgery, I underwent radiation treatment, which saved my life. This is my tenth year in remission.

After surviving my first brain surgery, I set up goals to promote my recovery. Top of my bucket list was to live and work in London, as part of my overseas experience (OE). I spent eighteen months working and travelling in Europe. While I was in London, I went to see the famous Notting Hill Festival and this pencil drawing depicts that.

Ross Morum

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Sandra E Ball United Kingdom Title of creative work: “Matthew’s Portrait” Medium: watercolour portrait Size of creative work: 11.6 inches x 10.6 inches

My rare form of tumour, a vestibular schwannoma, was removed in May 2011 and yet, even now causes me to become very tired with the struggle of hearing in busy places, out for drives along winding roads with my husband, and always wondering from which direction sound is coming. Headaches still occur with too much concentration. Apparently, I still am unable to walk in a straight line! Nevertheless, I have learned to embrace the new me and because of the rehabilitation process which resulted in my taking up art for cognitive skills, my life is so much better than it could have been. Art is my go-to space, for peace and relaxation. It is also providing me with learning opportunities as I now study Art History, Old and New Masters. Recently, it gave me more challenges as I set up a website to show some of my creations and share my Journey into the Wonderful World of Art. This is a portrait of our youngest son, Matthew (at age 22) when he was half his current age. I painted this at his request because the photo reference he kindly provided is his favourite photo of himself. He must possess some great genes as he has hardly aged, except for a few grey hairs! Once again I challenged myself, painting in monochrome with Payne’s Gray paint which is quite a staining colour, so not easy to lift. As a people person, I love to paint portraits as everyone is unique and precious in God’s eyes. I find it really helps, when painting, to have a subject that we really love in front of us to be able to portray a likeness. It was a blessing when he remarked, ‘Amazing’ upon seeing it, knowing that the challenge was fulfilled.

Sandra E Ball 16

Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Alan Vickery Ireland Title of creative work: “Landscape” Medium: Infinite Painter on TAB S8 Size of creative work: 20 cm x 20 cm

I am 52 years old. In January 2016 I was diagnosed with a brain tumor called a craniopharyngioma.

In 2017 the tumor was partly removed.

Since then I have lost my business of 27 years and I am on a large amount of medication.

My whole life has changed since that date.

This picture was drawn from a location in Howth, Dublin, Ireland. It’s a lovely spot where you can sit and relax while watching the ships come in.

Alan Vickery

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Jenny Hyslop United Kingdom Title of creative work: “Sunset on Bude Seapool, Cornwall” Medium: acrylic on canvas board Size of creative work: 23 inches x 19 inches

I was diagnosed with a brain tumour in April 2021 and had an emergency craniotomy to remove a cyst overlying a tumour. This was then followed with another craniotomy three weeks later to remove the tumour as much as was possible. Once I healed up, I was put on radiotherapy for six-and-a-half weeks daily, from Monday to Friday. This was very tiring as we had a long hour-and-a-half journey each way. I lost a lot of my hair which had been my pride and joy. It was quite long and thick and used to have highlights and I would wear it up at work. I felt so sad to lose my hair. Then I had chemotherapy with temozolamide which affected my blood platelets so I had spells of low platelets and at one point needed a transfusion. I also had anaemia and required an infusion. This meant I had to have the treatment stopped at cycle seven instead of twelve. The MRI showed it wasn’t working at a lower dose and the tumour was regrowing. Unfortunately, this meant I had to have a third craniotomy in June 2022. The surgery was fairly successful ,and my consultant said he’d managed to remove 98% of the tumour. I’m now on a different type of chemo. Sadly, due to the tumour, I lost my podiatry business which I had run for 22 years and lost my driving licence so I had to give up my car and independence. I still enjoy other things that I didn’t have time to do before such as my painting, walking and gardening and more time with my elderly dog, a Jack Russell.

This painting is of a very special place for me as it is where I used to swim regularly even in the winter before I had my brain tumour diagnosis. I achieved a Penguin challenge here by swimming throughout the winter at least twice a month. Sadly, due to treatments for my brain tumour, I have not been able to continue my swimming. But I really hope that in the near future I may be able to. It’s such a lovely peaceful place and has wonderful sunsets. That gave me the inspiration to paint this.

Jenny Hyslop

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Jami Millon United States Title of creative work: “It’s All Random” Medium: pigment ink drawing Size of creative work: approximately 8 inches x 8 inches

My brain is completely different than it was before cancer. My thoughts are often sporadic and incomplete and frequently unfinished. I enjoy drawings like this because I can come back later and continue working on it, no matter how long it takes.

I’ve never been able to draw, though since taking some virtual art classes with Cancer Support Community of Ann Arbor [in the United States] I have learned to accept the peacefulness in the random lines of drawing.

Jami Millon

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Devon Rae United States Title of creative work: “Evan” Medium: pen and ink, and gouache Size of creative work: 13 inches x 9 inches I have a grade three oligodendroglioma, have had two brain surgeries, and I am currently undergoing a peptide vaccine. I have done various experimental treatments over the years, but no chemotherapy or radiation. I was diagnosed in 2017 and while cancer has slowed me down a little, I’m still reaching all of my goals.

This piece was done for my now fiancé, Evan. At a time when I was really struggling with creativity, he encouraged me to draw. Through this illustration I figured out a style that I love as well as techniques that I still use today.

Devon Rae

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Geoff Davey Australia Title of creative work: “The Gift that Keeps on Giving” Medium: timber Size of creative work: 60 cm by 70 cm x 18 cm

At the age of 45, with children and a fast-paced business and family, the GBM diagnosis was devastating. Life made a 180 degrees turn, with no sign of improvement but instead increasing cognitive deficits and short-term memory problems as well as the inability to earn and provide for the family. For a number of months life was difficult. But ultimately the time came to accept the diagnosis and do your best job to live through it instead. A highly inspirational road began, full of new life and adventures - a different way of achieving goals but equally rewarding. When Geoff passed away, he openly said: “I’ve ticked all my boxes, I’m good to go.” He survived 40 months with his disease, and at least 32 of those were worth being alive for. We are grateful for the lessons his disease has provided.

During his brain tumour diagnosis Geoff was unable to continue working, driving or doing many of the things he had previously loved in life. But his life had always been about giving. Geoff made around 120 of these bird houses, in many designs. Each time a friend or family member would visit he would hand one over and get a photo. His name is wood burned onto each one, crafted from his own handwriting. Each person who received a bird house felt the level of humility, resilience, positivity and heart that went into each one.

Geoff has since passed away (4th June 2022) - these are now beautiful memorial gifts for us all.

Geoff Davey (deceased, submitted on his behalf by Fiona Hassmann, Geoff’s partner)

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Ben Winters New Zealand Title of creative work: “Light at the End of the Tunnel” Medium: photo Size of creative work: 5970 px x 3840 px

I have had a rough five-and-a-half years after a grade 4 astrocytoma diagnosis. I have had many hard times and yet some amazing moments too. I have had another baby which was not meant to be possible and myself and my family are loving life again. Never ever give up. Positivity is key.

Nature doesn’t always play out the way we want it to. The tunnel in my photo represents the long dark fight with brain cancer. What’s important here is one thing: the light at the end of the tunnel. The light at the end of the tunnel is what I call the five year light. What’s brilliant is that slowly, it seems more people seem to be reaching the light at the end of the tunnel which gives more people hope, and hope after a brain cancer diagnosis is everything.

Ben Winters

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Parikshit Mehra India Title of creative work: “Morning Song” Medium: original photographic image with original poem superimposed Size of creative work: 150 mm x 250 mm

I was diagnosed with an epidermoid tumour and operated on by a stalwart of great renown in skull base surgery, Dr Takanori Fukushima. This kind of tumour is classified as a rarest of rare conditions with an occurrence of about one percent amongst brain tumours.

I dedicate my poem to a wonderful lady, Mrs Joyce Fay Powell, who while herself having to deal with the challenges of this tumour has been a source of inspiration for hundreds of sufferers and caregivers of the epidermoid community. With her personal involvement, advice, guidance, encouragement, care and love, she has been a beacon of hope for hundreds, who have transformed from strangers to her family. This tumour is devastating due to its reoccurrence over several years even decades. The toll on physical functionality and the financial cost can sometimes be dear. When the time frame is this long, employers, relations, in some case even care givers and partners turn negative. It is in this backdrop that knowing that someone cares makes that care very precious indeed.

Fay, as she is fondly called in the community, has a privileged connection to divinity and communicates this divinity to her ‘Moid’ family.

Parikshit Mehra

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Yaron Butterfield Canada Title of creative work: “The Dream” Medium: acrylic Size of creative work: 9 inches x 12 inches

On February 23, 2004, I collapsed in a grand mal seizure and was subsequently diagnosed with glioblastoma (GBM).

After a recurrence in 2005 and then further treatment, I have been clear since the fall of 2006. Over the years my GBM has affected me in all dimensions of life and has led to many opportunities to give back to the brain cancer community. As I work in cancer genomics, I pushed to be involved in any brain cancer projects and was happy to play a large part in one study on oligodendroglioma. I have met many people all over the world who are going through what I experienced. I have always felt that we need to leverage our mind (which can be hard when the cancer is in the brain!) and soul to heal ourselves. We all have tremendous power and strength to do just that. I have a website at: http://yaronbutterfield.com I had a powerful dream in my third week of treatment. I was in a dark, damp and cold room. I sensed something behind me and I looked back to see a figure all in black with a hood, holding a sceptre at his side. Death. He was slowly hovering toward me. Then I felt a comforting warm air circulating around my feet. So I looked down wondering what was going on and to my surprise, there was a being with wings, an angel. It appeared as if he was motioning his hands to move an energy around my body and as he proceeded, he rose and everything he was doing felt more and more powerful as he got to my shoulders. The room felt warmer and brighter, and Death had now retreated. The angel was at my head and everything was more intense and the room became infinitely bright.

Yaron Butterfield

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Giuseppe Raschiani Italy Title of creative work: “Allegria” Medium: canvas and acrylic Size of creative work: 60 cm x 80 cm

Suddenly, I had an attack of epilepsy at Christmas 2020. There was a gift in my brain, a so-called glioblastoma. I was operated on urgently and I had nine cycles of chemo, ending in April 2022. I also did a radiotherapy treatment. This is my second time in “BRILLIANCE!”. Allow me also to express my sentiments of appreciation and affection that I hold for Professor Gaetano Finocchiaro and his team (dott. ssa Berzero) of San Raffaele Hospital in Milan, Italy for the assistance and the kindness with which they cared for me. I’m alive and I’m fine. I love to paint abstract pictures. Many people appreciate them for their brilliance and originality. Painting is my hobby now and I intend to exhibit my works more and more.

ALLEGRIA (cheerfulness). This painting signifies the cheerfulness and joy of a circus seen by a child. I think of the Cirque du Soleil. So lively and immediate. This simplicity of colors and shapes wants to represent the essence of allegria. The concept of allegria in a painting, thinking about the Cirque du Soleil.

Giuseppe Raschiani

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

M K Nicholas United States Title of creative work: “Blue Anvil Cloud” Medium: ink on plastic Size of creative work: 20 inches x 20 inches

I practiced neuro-oncology for 28 years, retiring in April, 2022. All my life I have had an abiding love for the visual arts, beginning my college education with a degree in fine arts.

As my clinical experience fades and I return to the world of image creation, I will carry with me all that I learned from my patients and their loved ones over the years. Serious illness is life-changing and yields infinite access to the depths of human experience in all its manifestations. The urge to create arises from these same depths. My art is deeply informed by my experience in the world of brain tumors.

This piece is a study, made during off-hours from my practice as a neuro-oncologist. I was interested in applying the ink to the plastic (Yupo paper) in such a way that the image of the cloud became a part of the surface, yet still shimmering -- iconlike -- on it. I stopped working on it when it started shining back at me. It had found a voice.

M K Nicholas

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Iain Myrans Canada Title of creative work: “Fishing at Sunset” Medium: digital photography Size of creative work: 8 inches x 10 inches

I’m a caregiver to my wife who has been fighting a brain tumour for several years.

This image of a man fishing at sunset on Lake Ontario, Canada, reminds us that we can often find the greatest happiness in the simplest things.

Iain Myrans

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Judy Brusse Canada Title of creative work: “Mother and Child” Medium: watercolour painting Size of creative work: 8 inches x 10 inches Fifteen years ago, in the emergency department of a local hospital our daughter was diagnosed with a brain tumour.

I was with her at the time and my reaction was shock, followed by sadness and disbelief. She was transferred to a neurological centre where they confirmed the tumour.

From that point on I have experienced a range of emotions, fear, guilt, anger, anxiety and, at times, relief following successful surgeries. It is that feeling of helplessness as her mother, wanting to fix it, wanting it to go away. That what is most important in my life has changed. The fact that my daughter has shown such a positive attitude towards dealing with her tumour and the treatments she has had to endure has provided me with strength and allowed me to better focus on her needs and happiness. I am so very proud of this amazing and brave woman.

This painting is based on a photograph taken by the daughter of a good friend while in Cote d’Ivoire. I was drawn to painting it by the mother’s look of determination, the child’s expression and the mother’s striking headscarf and skirt. Our daughter was diagnosed with a brain tumour 15 years ago at the age of twenty-eight. She is currently recovering from her third surgery, and has had multiple chemo treatments and radiation. It is her determination and positive outlook throughout that has given her family confidence and strength. We celebrate the dedicated surgeons, oncologist, therapists, and their skilled teams in their battle to challenge this disease and are grateful for all the support our daughter has had and continues to receive.

Judy Brusse

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Jennifer Neale United States Title of creative work: “An Old White Oak Tree and Magnolia” Medium: pen and ink, coloured pens in browns and grey Size of creative work: 15.5 inches x 11.5 inches

It was 25 years ago when I was diagnosed with anaplastic astrocytoma, Grade 3, and was told, if lucky, I had two and a half years left. The doctor was incorrect! I moved from managing 72 employees to finding a slower, graciousness through art, and the creativity with sewing. This has been my balance, the rather odd gift of brain cancer.

There is an old Japanese house in the town next to mine. Everything is a bit crooked, and I fell in love with it. Today, on the gate, there is a heavy iron lock, but I preferred how it would have looked when built many years ago, and drew it as a small hook, instead. The tree is now bent over to the right side and supported with a steel rod, but I wanted it to be strong enough, brave enough for a longer life, so it was changed, also.

This piece is called ‘An Old White Oak Tree and Magnolia’. I did not traditionally sign this piece, but used a hanko, or a stamp with my initials, instead. The symbols mean Wabi-Sabi, the transitory nature or to embrace the imperfection; Hanakotoba for plants and magnolias; and the symbol of an oak tree. The calmness brings me a smile, as I move forward.

Jennifer Neale

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Julia Robertson Australia Title of creative work: “Even Broken Brains Are Beautiful” Medium: digital image manipulation Size of creative work: 1.2 MP

I was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 2003.

This is a digital manipulation of one of my post-operative MRI images, intertwined with an image of white opals. It represents the beauty of this incredible organ and how incredibly valuable it is. This is where I live.

Julia Robertson

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Kate Coatsworth New Zealand Title of creative work: “Zentangled Restoration” Medium: guitar and black zentangle pens Size of creative work: 1.5 m x 45 cm

In 2019 I was diagnosed with a grade 4 glioblastoma. I had a seven-hour surgery and went through six weeks of chemotherapy and radiation followed by a year of chemo. I am now three-and-a-half years in the clear and although I will never be in remission as the risk of recurrence is high, being grade 4, I am trying to focus on getting on with my life and the gap between my MRIs have just moved from six-monthly to annually. :) I found this guitar in a second-hand shop and it had no strings and had a few dents and scratches. Someone had thrown it away with no hope of restoring it to its former glory. I decided to take it home and zentangle it - a meditative art form creating something beautiful for my wall as a reminder that we can make things beautiful again regardless of the scars.

Kate Coatsworth

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Kumiko Yokozuka Japan Title of creative work: “Find a Rainbow” Medium: photographic image Size of creative work: 20 inches x 13.3 inches

Sadly, four years ago I was diagnosed with a brain tumor.

I regretted badly not taking care of my own health. But at the same time I learned the importance and practice of improving my well-being from my body, sound and mind.

I am very thankful and grateful that through this illness, I was luckily able to meet a special person I can be with and cherish for the rest of my life. Wishing all of you to live life shining brightly.

Brilliance, there’s a saying, “You’ll never find a rainbow if you’re looking down.” (Charlie Chaplin). This is my most favourite quote that motivates my life. I define myself from a rose that blooms beautifully after rain. I also get the feeling of rain drops dripping on my face every moment of my life. But this rose is positively a stronghold on its own. I wonderfully learned from a rose and feel like I know how to live well. Moreover, I couldn’t help myself developing a habit of taking pictures of roses. This rose is positive and wonderful.

Kumiko Yokozuka

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Kimberly Myrans Canada Title of creative work: “Haystack Rock” Medium: coloured pencils Size of creative work: 5 inches x 5 inches

I was first diagnosed around 2008 with a brain tumour. I have been through various chemotherapy treatments, radiation and two surgeries. I have recently gone through a third surgery this past July (2022) and finished a special neuro rehabilitation program in Toronto. I am very happy to be home now with my husband. The recovery continues and has been going well. It has been a long journey and continues still. I am just ever so thankful for all the love and support around me.

I did this drawing as an anniversary gift for my husband Iain. It is my own artistic interpretation of a painting of Haystack Rock originally done by Paul Brent. Haystack Rock is quite a recognizable landmark located on the coast of Cannon Beach in Oregon. My husband and I spent a couple days at a beautiful resort close by. The image brings back many good memories.

Kimberly Myrans

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Parikshit Mehra India Title of creative work: “Joy” Medium: photograph with superimposed script Size of creative work: 150 mm x 150 mm

I was diagnosed with an epidermoid tumour and operated on by a stalwart of great renown in skull base surgery, Dr Takanori Fukushima. This kind of tumour is classified as a rarest of rare conditions with an occurrence of about one percent amongst brain tumours.

I dedicate my creative work to a wonderful lady, Mrs Joyce Fay Powell, who while herself having to deal with the challenges of this tumour has been a source of inspiration for hundreds of sufferers and caregivers in the epidermoid community. With her personal involvement, advice, guidance, encouragement, care and love, she has been a beacon of hope for hundreds who have transformed from strangers to her family.

This tumour is devastating due to its reccurrence over several years and even decades. The toll on physical functionality and the financial cost can sometimes be dear. When the time frame is this long, employers, relations, in some cases even caregivers and partners turn negative. It is against this backdrop that knowing that someone cares makes that care very precious indeed. Fay, as she is fondly called in the community, has a privileged connection to divinity and communicates this divinity to her ‘Moid’ family.

Parikshit Mehra

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Rebecca Gordon Australia Title of creative work: “Beanie and Snook” Medium: knitted wool Size of creative work: 80 cm x 10 cm

Finding out I had a brain tumour came as a huge shock to me but also a great sense of relief and validation that my symptoms were real and treatable. It gave me a wake-up call to focus on what meant the most to me, and my relationship with my family has grown stronger.

I still have lingering issues such as balance, brain fog and fading eyesight; despite this I remain adamant to enjoy and make the most of every day that I have.

I knitted this beanie [hat] before my parasagittal meningioma craniotomy in June 2021 (wintertime in Australia) as I thought I was going to lose all my hair (which luckily I did not have to). Knitting is a very mindful activity and it helped keep me focused. I knitted the snook [scarf] after surgery, not just for relaxation, but as a benchmark to test that my brain was still working. I used a repeatable alternating pattern of 4x4 (knit and pearl) to create a checkerboard effect. Literally and figuratively, there were some dropped stitches along the way but overall, I think it all came out okay.

Rebecca Gordon

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Sharon Holesh Canada Title of creative work: “Empress of Light” Medium: radiation mask, paint, shimmer pipe cleaners, found objects, wool, cardboard Venetian mask Size of creative work: 19 inches x 10 inches x 14 inches

Transformation via :- A healing mask A healing task Has been given to a mask Custom-made for radiation The purpose - to invoke a mutation

Or - a chance to be an ever-evolving crone A resilient being when cosmic winds are blown

A star in my head Is it something to dread?

Or a means of transformation?

A deviation From my usual approach To facilitate cosmic growth

My plight is universal All beings have a heart and soul We are here to be in school Many times we act like the fool

A bloom in my brain Ushers in a new chapter of reign After all - I am the cosmic queen And former wife of valiant Dean Currently companion of a Cosmic Prince Who does not, at challenges - wince Contessa Veronica - her heart so wide On this journey - has been at my side

Though we are all unique and dressed in different plumage As we strive to express a particular image We are all connected We are all affected What happens to one - happens to all How do we respond to a call A cry for support What will be our retort?

Transiting Uranus squaring five planets natal Can sometimes be fatal

We are all here to learn to love ourselves To look for magic, meaning and elves Sharon Holesh

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

M K Nicholas United States Title of creative work: “Leyden Jars” Medium: ink and graphite on paper Size of creative work: 14 inches x 18 inches

I practiced neuro-oncology for 28 years, retiring in April, 2022.

Throughout that time I have had an abiding love for the visual arts, beginning my college education with a degree in fine arts.

As my clinical experience fades and I return to the world of image creation, I will carry with me all that I learned from my patients and their loved ones over the years. Serious illness is life-changing and yields infinite access to the depths of human experience in all its manifestations. The urge to create arises from these same depths. My art is deeply informed by my experience in the world of brain tumors.

This piece is a study, made during off-hours from my practice as a neuro-oncologist. The theme--a still life--is traditional. The creation of the image was anything but. Composed of graphite powder and metallic inks applied to alcohol-soaked paper, I sought to leave something of the energy of its creation within the piece itself; an animating force that is its activation.

M K Nicholas

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Smita Bhatia Canada Title of creative work: “Compassion” Medium: watercolour Size of creative work: 7 inches x 10 inches approximately

I had a good run of nine years after my first (2013) and second (2017) diagnosis and treatment. I did reasonably well after my third recurrence (2021) and proton beam radiation. However, radiation-induced necrosis has severely impacted my vision, speech, and mobility for the past two months. I am currently on bevacizumab infusion and hope that my symptoms will be reversed. I took to art after 2013 and settled on portraits and watercolors over the past three to four years. I would rather be holding a pencil or brush in my hand at the moment!

Sam - she was my constant companion during those lonely days of academic research. I got her as a six-month-old kitten, and she came with us to Canada when my husband and I moved for our post-doc research. She grew up to be a beautiful cat and boy, did she know that! She was the pride of our home and taught us what unconditional love meant. She would always know when I was down and leave a small present under my pillow (and not my husband’s) to let me know that things would turn out ok. We must have been soulmates in some past life as she too was diagnosed with cancer and had to be put down about eight months before my first diagnosis.

Smita Bhatia

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Yaron Butterfield Canada Title of creative work: “Double Vision” Medium: acrylic, pencil, computer Size of creative work: 10 inches x 10 inches

Soon after my diagnosis of glioblastoma (GBM) in February, 2004 at the age of 29, friends and colleagues had suggested that I write my story. Many years later, I am still working on it. Writing the memoir has been a journey in itself; I have discovered things about myself I normally might not have without writing. Over the years, I have learned a lot, sharpened my writing skills, and I believe my final piece will be a much better read than if I rushed to get it done. I now have the perspective of a long term survivor which comes with many long term side effects of treatment such as hearing loss, balance issues, and double vision. My journey of many ups and downs I think will be of interest to many, giving hope and perspective in living with brain cancer. I have a website at: http://yaronbutterfield.com I started to experience double vision for the first time in 2014; a long term effect of the radiation which caused damage to my left cranial nerve 6. It was in the third period of the hockey game, when it gradually felt like I was seeing more players! Perhaps because when playing hockey your eyes jump around so quickly that the double vision finally pronounced itself. I thought I was having a mini-seizure but soon after, my oncologist confirmed the damage to my optic nerve. Over the years I have had two unsuccessful surgeries. My brain has adjusted to some degree and the further I turn my head, the more pronounced is the double vision. I can have fun with it too; if a bald man was next to a woman with beautiful hair, I can move my eyes to merge them and if I concentrate I can give him her hair!

Yaron Butterfield

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Smita Bhatia Canada Title of creative work: “Teacher” Medium: charcoal Size of creative work: 8 inches x 14 inches approximately

The first external manifestation of my tumor was my inability to complete sentences and be articulate. This was surprising, as I have always prided myself on my presentation skills honed through years of academic research. However, this inability was a major impediment to get a proper diagnosis of my condition, where it was initially considered to be an allergic reaction or some sinus issues. It was quite fortuitous that the radiologist looking at the CT scan of my paranasal sinuses identified a space-occupying lesion in my brain! Years later, during routine follow up scans, a PET scan showed that a lot of the usual left-brain activities were actually happening in my right-brain.

Perhaps, this was one reason why I have managed to have a decent quality of life until now. And I could enjoy art as much as I have!

This is the portrait of my wellness instructor. I got introduced to him two years after my first tryst with my brain tumor in 2013 and he has been an integral part of my physical and mental wellness support system. He inspired and coached me to complete my first 10k run/walk in 2017 a few months before my tumor recurred and I had to undergo stereotactic radiosurgery.

Even after we moved away from India to California in 2019 and during the entire pandemic-induced isolation, he continued to remotely train me. This piece is dedicated to him.

Smita Bhatia

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Sandra E Ball United Kingdom Title of creative work: “Holly in Oils” Medium: oil portrait Size of creative work: 12 inches x 16 inches

I underwent surgery to remove a rare form of brain tumour, a vestibular schwannoma, in May 2011 by a brilliant neurosurgeon and his medical team. The tumour was well stuck to the facial nerve and I proved to be a ‘walking miracle’ coming through the ordeal without facial palsy, save but for one eyebrow higher than the other. It took my hearing, which still results in me becoming tired and fatigued more than was normal before. Art is my release and takes me away from any aches and pains I may be experiencing. I still have headaches occasionally, even to this day. I have learned to embrace the ‘new me’.

Towards the end of 2021 I was blessed to attend a five-day Portrait Course in Oils with Marion Dutton when this was one of two portraits attempted. The tutor does not consider this a finished painting; however, I rather like it as it is. I found the course very intensive and really difficult to keep to what I think was expected of me. In the end, on the last day, I said to Marion that I was only going to concentrate on one of the portraits choosing to leave ‘Holly’ as she was. It shows our granddaughter when she was age four and has been duly given to her dad, our eldest son. The fact that it looks like Holly, after I have tried several times to portray her with little success, was a joy to me. It seems to be quite an achievement; all thanks be to my Saviour God. Amen.

Sandra E Ball

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Isaac Butterfield (age 11) Canada Title of creative work: “Lightning” Medium: acrylic paint on canvas Size of creative work: 12 inches x 9 inches

My uncle survived a brain tumour.

This painting reminds me of all the different colours in light and it is relaxing.

Isaac Butterfield

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Giuseppe Raschiani Italy Title of creative work: “Incontro” Medium: acrylic paints on canvas Size of creative work: 50 cm x 100 cm

Suddenly, I had an attack of epilepsy at Christmas 2020.

There was a gift in my brain, a so-called glioblastoma.

I was operated on urgently and I had nine cycles of chemo, ending in April 2022. I also did a radiotherapy treatment. This is my second time in “BRILLIANCE!”.

Allow me also to express my sentiments of appreciation and affection that I hold for Professor Gaetano Finocchiaro and his team (dott.ssa Berzero) of San Raffaele Hospital in Milan, Italy for the assistance and the kindness with which they cared for me. I’m alive and I’m fine. I love to paint abstract pictures. Many people appreciate them for their brilliance and originality.

Painting is my hobby now and I intend to exhibit my works more and more.

Incontro (encounter) is the moment in which the lives of two people come together. For a moment, for a short time, for a little time, forever. Pink is the symbol of hope. It is an extremely emotional color that inspires confidence and optimism; it conveys kindness, protection, tranquillity. Blue is the color of the sky and the sea; it evokes nature and infinity. A meeting that expresses the hope of living.

Giuseppe Raschiani

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Devon Rae United States Title of creative work: “Whales” Medium: pen and ink, and gouache Size of creative work: 13 inches x 9 inches

I have a grade three oligodendroglioma, have had two brain surgeries, and I am currently undergoing a peptide vaccine trial. I have done various experimental treatments over the years, but no chemotherapy or radiation. I was diagnosed in 2017 and while cancer has slowed me down a little, I’m still reaching all of my goals.

In dreams, whales are associated with compassion and solitude, and knowledge of life and death. They are also associated with unbridled creativity. The exhalation through the blowhole symbolizes the freeing of one’s own creative energies. I made this piece after a dream I had where I jumped into a swirling pod of whales.

Devon Rae

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Alexia Trzyna United States Title of creative work: “Untitled” Medium: ceramic Size of creative work: 12 inches x 10.5 inches x 3.5 inches

I have been married to a physician who treats brain tumors for the past 42 years. I watch from afar as his patients and their families reach up to fight their diseases with exceptional spirit and resilience. I watch medical professionals who give their talent and soul to helping those with brain tumors. I am inspired by the dedication, compassion and resilience of the human soul. The bright light of the natural world offers a means to heal and take stock of the beauty of our everyday.

The rich colors, patterns and textures of the ceramic vase is inspired by nature that refreshes and invigorates the soul.

Alexia Trzyna

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Jennifer Neale United States Title of creative work: “The Flutist and Magnolia” Medium: pen and ink, coloured pens in browns and grey Size of creative work: 11.5 inches x 8 inches Seeing Japan for the first time took place 19 years after my neurosurgery for an anaplastic astrocytoma. For me, it was easy to be drawn by the quietness, the balance, and the Japanese love for the simple things in life. I took pictures of what appealed to me, and reviewed all of them when I came home. This piece called ‘The Flutist and the Magnolia’ came from three garden locations when I was in Kyoto.

The first photo was of two men. They were both dressed beautifully in traditional clothes down by the river, but the one I selected for this piece was the musician. The second photo was of a small garden. It was peaceful with many large, twisted trees, and the one that called to me was this old Japanese maple. The third photo was of a traditional, small house, nearly hidden in the corner of another garden.

They became melded together, with the magnolia plant weaving the three photographs into one.

Jennifer Neale

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Kate Winters New Zealand Title of creative work: “Kaitoke Tranquility” Medium: oil on canvas Size of creative work: 51 cms x 61 cms

My son, Ben, was given a terminal diagnosis in 2017.

Just the thought of losing your child, watching them suffer, is every mother’s nightmare. He is our miracle!

In 2017, my son, Ben, was diagnosed with a grade 4 glioblastoma and given two years to live, three max.

Needless to say, our whole family was devastated.

After surgery and five years later, his scans are still all clear and he continues to follow his passion, photography.

Ben is walking a lot more since his diagnosis and, as an artist, I enjoy walks in our beautiful native bush areas with Ben and his sister. This painting is from one of Ben’s photos, a calm and tranquil spot, perfect for contemplation of how lucky we are in this life.

Kate Winters

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Tomomi Orikasa Japan Title of creative work: “Self Portrait - Awake” Medium: digital painting Size of creative work: 2000px x 2000 px

I was diagnosed with ependymoma in 2008 and have been undergoing surgery and radiotherapy as needed while monitoring the progress. Sequelae from treatment to date include mild truncal ataxia, diplopia in the left eye, and deafness in the right ear.

This work is a self-portrait of myself “awake” after undergoing treatment for a brain tumor.

I wanted to express “myself trying to make sure I’m alive and aware of what state I’m in”. I also wanted to capture that morning “wake up” moment that has a special meaning to me since I had a brain tumor.

Tomomi Orikasa

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Jami Millon United States Title of creative work: “Presto Mandala” Medium: pigment ink drawing Size of creative work: 8 inches x 8 inches

Living with a brain tumor means living with chaotic thoughts and shaking hands. Mandalas are forgiving designs when the lines you draw are wiggly.

A mandala by definition is a “circular design containing geometric forms”. Drawing a mandala is calming to the mind and body.

This piece is based on a tutorial by Ben Crothers.

Jami Millon

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Jenny Hyslop United Kingdom Title of creative work: “Cornish Tin Mine” Medium: acrylic on canvas board Size of creative work: 30 inches x 20 inches

I sadly lost my business that I ran for 22 years as a podiatrist treating hundreds of patients in the area I lived in. As most were seeing me on a regular basis they became part of my extended family. Even now after not being able to treat them, many still keep in contact after 17 months of being closed. I find I have lost my independence due to having to revoke my driving licence and therefore have no car. Our home life has changed as I was the higher earner and now my husband has to work longer hours to pay the household bills. I am very lucky to have a lovely family and husband who are very supportive, and my love of art keeps me occupied and away from my daily worries or concerns of what may happen in the future. I have much less energy, so I have to pace myself otherwise I’m wiped out. I live with a constant unknown future but I do my best to keep positive.

This is a painting of the tin mine in St Agnes Cornwall [United Kingdom] on the lovely coastal path. It’s called Wheal Coates. It’s painted in acrylic paint and I painted this for my husband’s Christmas present last year. It’s a place we have walked together before my brain tumour diagnosis and would love to go there again soon if I’m well enough.

Jenny Hyslop

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Renee Prescott New Zealand Title of creative work: “The Sweetest Eyes” Medium: acrylic on canvas Size of creative work: 20 inches x 20 inches

In May this year I was diagnosed with a brain tumor.

This painting highlights the beauty of a sweet animal.

Renee Prescott

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Yaron Butterfield Canada Title of creative work: “Twins” Medium: acrylic Size of creative work: 8 inches x 10 inches

I was diagnosed with glioblastoma (GBM) soon after a grand mal seizure in Februrary, 2004 and I have been clear since the fall of 2006. Over the years, I have had the honour of giving back to the brain cancer community in various ways. I coordinated a walk/run over several years and was a founding member of a cycling team we called the Brainiacs; having raised millions of dollars for the local cancer foundation. I have met so many amazing people along the way going through a similar experience of brain cancer diagnosis of themselves or a loved on. Even though everyone’s journey is unique, we all are connected and can relate to each other in some way. I have a website at: http://yaronbutterfield.com After my brain cancer diagnosis, I was blessed with amazing support from friends and family. My older twin brother Noam was there for me in all dimensions. I likened my cancer journey to climbing up a steep mountain through a dense forest. Sometimes the backpack was too heavy, and he would carry it until I had the strength to take it back.

He directed me along the way when I veered off the path.

When I fell, he was there to lift me up. When I was thirsty, he was there to give me a bottle of water. When I needed to rest, he sat beside me. Having him around gave me even more motivation to survive as I couldn’t comprehend what it would have been like for him if I didn’t make it. Likewise, I’ve always wanted to make sure I am around for him.

Yaron Butterfield

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Sandra E Ball United Kingdom Title of creative work: “Citroen Classic Car” Medium: watercolour Size of creative work: 15 inches x 12 inches (including white border)

After undergoing surgery for a rare form of brain tumour, a vestibular schwannoma, in May 2011 I have learned how to embrace the new me. Art is, for me, essential therapy. I am so happy God gave me divine opportunities to meet the best neurosurgeon. My neurosurgeon has since retired, leaving big shoes to fill by those coming afterwards. I am in the process of moving forward seeing where this art journey may lead and have a new website sharing the story so far. I keep meeting some amazing people, artists and creatives who are on their own journey. I want to keep inspiring others with what the Lord Jesus has enabled me to do, now overcoming two major surgeries. Since May 2011, I have also come through a rare form of skin cancer resulting in a new nose! Life is certainly filled with surprises. The best is yet to come!

This was my fourth watercolour painted in January 2022 – a good start for the year! Inspired from a photograph I had taken, I could see this car was well loved by its owner. I loved the shiny reflections and this challenged me to have a go at portraying it. Painted in a rather illustrative style with a limited palette of seven colours, it was like piecing a puzzle together as I applied the layers of paint trying to bring it to life. As of now, I think it is one of my best paintings this year.

Thank you, Jesus, the author and finisher of my faith.

Sandra E Ball

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Devon Rae United States Title of creative work: “Zach” Medium: pen and ink, and gouache Size of creative work: 16 inches x 19 inches

I have a grade three oligodendroglioma, have had two surgeries, and I’m currently undergoing peptide vaccine treatment. I was diagnosed in 2017 and have done various experimental treatments, but no chemotherapy or radiation.

Cancer has put me a little behind schedule, but I’ve still reached all of my goals so far.

This piece was commissioned by a friend who succumbed to GBM before I was able to finish it. I finished it specifically for this show in his honor.

Devon Rae

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Giuseppe Raschiani Italy Title of creative work: “Tran Tran” Medium: canvas and acrylic Size of creative work: 60 cm x 90 cm

Suddenly, I had an attack of epilepsy at Christmas 2020.

There was a gift in my brain, a so-called glioblastoma.

I was operated on urgently and I had nine cycles of chemo, ending in April 2022. I also did a radiotherapy treatment. This is my second time in “BRILLIANCE!”.

Allow me to also express my sentiments of appreciation and affection that I hold for Professor Gaetano Finocchiaro and his team (dott.ssa Berzero) of San Raffaele Hospital in Milan, Italy for the assistance and the kindness with which they cared for me. I’m alive and I’m fine. I love to paint abstract pictures. Many people appreciate them for their brilliance and originality.

Painting is my hobby now and I intend to exhibit my works more and more.

The TRAN TRAN means the habit of everyday life. The tranquility of everyday things. The pleasure of acting slowly and peacefully. The tran tran is appreciating your own habits and usual actions: meal time, breakfast, reading the newspaper, taking care of the flowers in the garden. Gray and yellow crossed by a red current. Gray is the color of stability, elegance and my brain. Yellow is the color of the sun of my days. Red is the energy of my neurons.

Giuseppe Raschiani

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Jennifer Neale United States Title of creative work: “A Peacock and Copper Gong” Medium: pen and ink, coloured pens and water and gold flakes Size of creative work: 12 inches x 7 inches

I was heading home from a trade show in Las Vegas, and that entire week everything seemed off. On the way to the airport, two of my associates told me my attention had been wandering in our last meeting, which struck me as odd. The man sitting next to me on the bus told me he was sorry to interrupt, and it seemed as if only the two of us where there. His wife dealt with seizures every day, and he said that I needed to get to a hospital as soon as I landed. I was diagnosed with an anaplastic astrocytoma and told if lucky, I had two-and-a-half years left.

That was 25 years ago.

I had not yet been to Japan, but already had made a connection with their art and fabrics. This piece is called ‘A Peacock and a Copper Gong’. It is one of my earliest paintings. I used watercolour, pen and ink, along with a mixture of gold on the bird.

I have used the symbol of my initials in red ink, rather than my name, on just a few paintings. The large banner on the right side has the Japanese symbols for calm and peace, and the words for peacock and gong are next to it.

The male bird standing before the copper gong has a meaning.

This bird symbolizes rejuvenation, royalty and integrity. The instrument, traditionally made of 80% copper and 20% tin, is used to create a mystical sound with the gong mallet. This can be very noisy and bold, but what I prefer is when it is played to be soft, and deep. To me, this is a more powerful sensation.

Jennifer Neale

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Smita Bhatia Canada Title of creative work: “Critique” Medium: white pencil on black paper Size of creative work: 8 inches x 14 inches approximately

Looking back at the past nine years since my first tryst with meningeal hemangiopericytoma (now called “solitary fibrous tumor”), I was in the middle of my master’s degree in Applied Economics from Johns Hopkins University in 2013 and my LL.B. from the University of London in 2021. My symptoms manifested as an inability to express myself, which I later learned was a form of expressive aphasia as my tumor was impinging upon my left temporal lobe. Things get complicated when one cannot express their symptoms and I consider myself blessed to be diagnosed at the appropriate time. I am happy that I could express myself through art - watercolor and portraits provided a good challenge to keep myself occupied, especially during the pandemic-induced lockdown.

This is a portrait of my mesho (uncle). He has been a constant supporter of my artistic endeavors. I was really ecstatic when he acknowledged that this work was one of my best!

Smita Bhatia

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Lillie Pakzad-Shahabi United Kingdom Title of creative work: “Parrot - Diversity and Hope” Medium: acrylic paint and canvas Size of creative work: 22.8 cms x 30.4 cms

I work as a neurooncology clinical research practitioner and do a lot of patient and public involvement so I always like to take in all views (from patients, caregivers, clinicians and researchers) to improve research, treatment and services for the brain tumour community and hopefully improve their quality of life.

The parrot and the colours represent diversity and how brain tumours don’t discriminate and can affect anyone from all backgrounds and ages. The bright colours are meant to represent hope and perseverance.

Lillie Pakzad-Shahabi

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

M K Nicholas United States Title of creative work: “Bone Fragment” Medium: encaustic on plastic Size of creative work: 5.5 inches x 12 inches

I practiced neuro-oncology for 28 years, retiring in April, 2022. All my life I have had an abiding love for the visual arts, beginning my college education with a degree in fine arts.

As my clinical experience fades and I return to the world of image creation, I will carry with me all that I learned from my patients and their loved ones over the years. Serious illness is life-changing and yields infinite access to the depths of human experience in all its manifestations. The urge to create arises from these same depths. My art is deeply informed by my experience in the world of brain tumors.

This piece is a study, made during off-hours from my practice as a neuro-oncologist. I am exploring the effects of different media on a variety of surfaces as I explore my image-making options. This piece resonates with me as something both simple and haunting.

M K Nicholas

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Parikshit Mehra India Title of creative work: “Beyond Circumstance” Medium: original photographic image with original poem superimposed Size of creative work: 150 mm x 150 mm

I was diagnosed with an epidermoid tumour and operated on by a stalwart of great renown in skull base surgery, Dr Takanori Fukushima. This kind of tumour is classified as a rarest of rare conditions with an occurrence of about one percent amongst brain tumours.

I dedicate my poem to a wonderful lady, Mrs Joyce Fay Powell, who while herself having to deal with the challenges of this tumour has been a source of inspiration for hundreds of sufferers and caregivers of the epidermoid community. With her personal involvement, advice, guidance, encouragement, care and love, she has been a beacon of hope for hundreds, who have transformed from strangers to her family. This tumour is devastating due to its reoccurrence over several years even decades. The toll on physical functionality and the financial cost can sometimes be dear. When the time frame is this long, employers, relations, in some case even care givers and partners turn negative. It is in this backdrop that knowing that someone cares makes that care very precious indeed.

Fay, as she is fondly called in the community, has a privileged connection to divinity and communicates this divinity to her ‘Moid’ family.

Parikshit Mehra

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Mara Bergamini Italy Title of creative work: “As Multi-Faceted as Life” Medium: white semi-refractory clay, glazes, sand and glue on a wooden panel Size of creative work: 40 cm x 45 cm

YOU DON’T DO ANYTHING ALONE.

RANDOM THOUGHTS

Stage IV Glioblastoma Multiforme entered our life through my husband’s head.

Left with him (2015-2016). Tumour is unexpected, unwanted, feared. It’s life!

It develops inside you, Feeds on you Lives in your body, your life.

You ask yourself: WHAT NOW? Angelo just wanted DIGNITY and TIME, focusing on his own life, leaving a better dad to his son.

I look at this picture through different glasses…

We focused on this And so it was.

Step by step.

You stay. Like Maria!

Do what you can – where you are – in that moment.

You are not alone.

Tumour took away his memory, sight, sense of direction…

I became his memory, eyes and compass.

We have experienced how fragile we are how strong we can be In our own HUMAN CONDITION. We welcomed the world.

The world welcomed us.

In pain, our deepest experience, rich and intense.

LOOKING FOR EMPATHY AND LIGHTNESS Tentacles have turned into light rays, coloured threads inside and outside us.

Joking , smiling, self-irony.

TENTACLES of a tumour that takes away everything Creeps in Spreads Multipotential mystery.

STRENGTH AND DIGNITY In the sea of life we got to know them through LOVE.

NET Acquaintances, friends…

From a call for help, THREADS are born and develop: CONNECTIONS EMOTIONS STORIES HUMANITY. IF YOU OPEN...

EVERYTHING CAN GET OUT, even pain.

EVERYTHING CAN COME IN, even nice things.

LOOKING FOR NICE THINGS EVERY DAY From a fact, a moment… much more may come Friends, encounters, sharing thoughts, words and loved ones.

Mara Bergamini

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Kristen Ferguson Canada Title of creative work: “Heart Factory” Medium: paint, photography, rocks and digital media Size of creative work: 3000 px x 3000 px

A brain tumour taught me to take breaks, if only for a few seconds to catch a sunset. A brain tumour taught me that those with the condition should likely be considered experts.

A brain tumour taught me how to look at MRI images with purpose. A brain tumour taught me that I am not as fearful as I thought. A brain tumour taught me that caring relationships are often more effective than medication for relieving pain. A brain tumour taught me to rejoice at a brain finally being considered unremarkable.

After emergency brain surgery this year I was unsure how my ability to make visual creations would be affected. I primarily work with moving images; animations that I set to music. This is a collection of still images from the first animation I made after surgery. During this process a once happy collaborator, the computer screen, became one that required much more awareness and respect.

Kristen Ferguson

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Carita Birch Australia Title of creative work: “The Black Sludge” Medium: acrylic on canvas Size of creative work: 60 cm x 60 cm

From the moment the MRI showed something in my brain, I was forever changed. I immediately left work and made a concerted effort to enact radical self-care while I waited for a diagnosis and treatment. I was confronted by things I didn’t understand, like epilepsy, gliomas and neurosurgery, radiation and chemotherapy. I absorbed discussions that included words like ‘malignancy’ and ‘palliative care’ and ‘new normal’. These things happen to other people, not me! I was faced with my own mortality. I had to sit with some very frightening thoughts and intense emotions, relying on my beloved family for emotional stability and support. I grew closer to my husband. I meditated and sat for hours by the fire. I walked in nature. I cried a lot. I learned to live completely in the moment, escaping worry about the past and anxiety about the future. In the present moment I was always safe. In a way, a brain tumour was a gift.

This creative work is an artist’s impression of the physical and emotional effects of the diagnosis and treatment of a malignant astrocytoma. It is a visual representation of the effect on thoughts, feelings and the ‘humanness’ of the heart, spirit and soul, from the moment of diagnosis to invasive surgeries, radiation and chemotherapy.

This piece conveys the deficit of colour, and the pervasiveness of dark mortal thoughts that took over my life. The effects of epilepsy, radiation and chemotherapy on my brain meant my usual colourful, calm and collected persona was replaced by what I describe as a ‘black sludge’ that crept into every cell of my brain and into my heart and soul.

“Blackbird Singing in the Dead of Night’, a song by The Beatles, was a daily reminder to me that if I could get through this, I would be free. In the silence I heard whispers that could only come from angels, that everything would be alright.

Carita Birch

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Renee Prescott New Zealand Title of creative work: “Searching for a Perfect World” Medium: acrylic on canvas Size of creative work: 24 inches x 36 inches

In May this year after having a seizure I was diagnosed with a brain tumor (suspected type of glioma in the left frontal lobe). Since then I’ve temporarily closed my cake business and taken up painting while waiting for a craniotomy. I have found painting to be extremely helpful during such a stressful time.

This is a painting with a vintage vibe.

Renee Prescott

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Ben Winters New Zealand Title of creative work: “Light After Dark Times” Medium: photo Size of creative work: 5760 x 3840 pxl

I was diagnosed with a grade 4 astrocytoma in May 2017 after a concussion due to a kick in the head playing football. Brain cancer was by far the hardest thing I’ve ever dealt with and after a long five year daily battle, I feel I am finally winning. My oncologist who has been in his position for 30 years has said he has never seen so many consecutive clear scans like mine.

While life isn’t what is used to be, it’s nice to be here, even if it means getting used to a new not so ideal normal.

This image was taken in Blossom Gardens in my home town. After so many dark times, it’s nice to see that new life blossoms in the night lit up by so much colour. The image to me represents new life, which blossoms are exactly that, and the light is what I like to think comes after a hard battle with darkness/brain cancer. Nothing about a brain cancer diagnosis is good. But the dark times can get better and the lights can come back on. Your new normal life can resume and you can potentially bloom again. Life is precious so never give up.

Ben Winters

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Noam Butterfield Canada Title of creative work: “Emotional Nebula” Medium: acrylic on canvas, photographed with digital paint overlay (stars) Size of creative work: 24 inches x 24 inches

My twin brother/best friend collapsed with a grade 4 astrocytoma (a glioblastoma) on February 23, 2004. Since then, I have been there every step of the way during treatment, follow-up, and the roller-coaster of feelings and emotions experienced in life from that day forward.

This piece is a combination of four individually-created acrylic paintings of nebulas, intentionally positioned and photographed with a digital paint overlay of stars. The nebula paintings together represent a face with a complex expression: simultaneously looking angry, contemplative, in pain, frustrated, sad and confused (among many others) yet determined, and with a smirk on the lips, indicating a confidence that, in the end, things are going to be okay. The complexity of emotions my brother has experienced as a result of the brain tumour, the mysteriousness of the origins of the brain tumour and the awe in appreciating the beauty in life, are all captured in nebulas (complex, powerful, mysterious, beautiful).

Noam Butterfield

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

Eric Rykiel United States Title of creative works: “Forlorn Man”, “The Creature” and “Empty” Medium: ink and watercolor paper Size of creative works: 9 inches x 9 inches The initial seizure, the diagnosis, the surgery and the treatments all have radically changed my life.

They have set me on a journey towards self-realization, towards what is truly meaningful and valuable here on earth, towards bliss. By ‘bliss’ I refer to the comprehension of one’s purpose, not elation. The journey I speak of never ends. One must go into the depths of the underworld to find what’s there. For me, I have always been interested in the liberal arts: music, poetry and illustration as well as philosophy, psychology and essay writing. But this got sicklied over by frequent drug and alcohol abuse.

After the resection I vowed never to smoke or drink again, but I was still plagued by monthly seizures.

Now, as I write this, I have been seizure-free for two years.

I am able to move on to the next chapter.

Eric Rykiel

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Forlorn Man Here, I appear decrepit, forlorn and weak. I have not become aware of the tumor yet, but my illness was present.

The Creature I suffer from horrifying seizures.

This is my transformation.

Empty After a long journey I have returned with the golden apple of knowledge.

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With our warmest thanks to: all of the artists who contributed to the “Brilliance! 2022” virtual art exhibition catalogue. Your creations are beautiful, moving, inspirational and unforgettable; brain tumour patient charities and not-for-profits, healthcare professionals and others around the world who spread the word for us about the “Brilliance!

2022” exhibition through their own communities and supporters; our wonderful graphic designer, Edwina Kelly of Edwina Kelly Design (edwina@edwinakellydesign.co.uk); and the companies and organisations which have supported the work of the IBTA this year.

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Brilliance - a virtual exhibition of creative works from the global brain tumour community

MORE RESEARCH MORE SUPPORT

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theibta

The International Brain Tumour Alliance