Hue the Globe with Chroma: This title suggests that someone or something is planning to present the world with a variety of colors, possibly in a painting, painting project, colorful display, or similar context.
Experience the inspiring tale of David Carroll, a gifted artist and Parkinson's disease warrior, whose vibrant work was on display at the Grafton Regional Gallery's exhibition, Colour my World. At the brink of his seventies, this resilient soul has battled the symptoms of Parkinson's for two years, though he suspects his struggles began over a decade ago, manifesting as fatigue and lethargy.
Art – his most potent form of expression – has been his sanctuary throughout. Despite his condition, David, with unwavering determination, pursued formal art education after a successful career as an electrician, earning a Bachelor of Visual Arts (Hons) in 2016. It was during these formative years that he began to notice changes in his handwriting, a telltale sign of the disease.
"Art has always been my mode of expression, clearer than words," David conceded. However, subtle changes in his artistic journey can be attributed to living with Parkinson's: a shift in medium, altered techniques, and the emergence of new themes. Today, he primarily works with acrylic paints combined with other media like charcoal and inks, opting for a flexibleMedium that allows him to take breaks and resume work without rushing.
"The disease has imposed restrictions on my creativity, and these limitations have, in turn, expanded my artistic horizon," he shared.
His latest exhibition was more than just a creative outlet – it was a platform to raise awareness about Parkinson's. David passionately believes that his art has transformed into a form of practice-led research: a means of expressing his experiences, fighting an unseen enemy, and advocating for future generations of Parkinson's patients.
David credits his involvement with Parkinson's NSW Support Group and an exercise class for helping him maintain physical and mental fortitude. The camaraderie and shared understanding within the group have been instrumental in his journey.
His affinity for writing is just as profound as his love for art. Every month, David pens a personal newsletter filled with enlightening insights into his life with Parkinson's, beautifully illustrated with his artwork. Subscriptions to David's inspiring newsletter can be requested at: [email protected].
Intrigued readers from various Australian states, the UK, and America have subscribed to his newsletter, ranging from fellow Parkinson's sufferers to family members, friends, and healthcare professionals alike. David's heartfelt musings about life with Parkinson's have resonated with a diverse audience, bridging geographical boundaries and instilling hope.
- Despite the limitations imposed by Parkinson's disease, David Carroll, a two-year Parkinson's warrior, pursued formal education in art after a successful career as an electrician, indicating a strong commitment to furthering his career in science, health, and wellness.
- The subtle changes in David's artistic journey, specifically a shift in medium, altered techniques, and the emergence of new themes, are undoubtedly influenced by his chronic health condition, chronic diseases, and mental health.
- In addition to art, David engages actively in fitness and exercise, attending an exercise class, aiming to balance nutrition, fitness, and mental well-being to cope with Parkinson's.
- Recognizing the power of art as a means of expression and a tool for advocacy, David uses his newsletter to shed light on his personal experiences living with Parkinson's, hoping to inspire and educate others about the disease and offer support to those affected by it, whether it's medical-conditions, family members, or healthcare professionals.
