Myalgic Encephalomyelitis

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This project is a very personal and emotive exploration of a disability I have been affected by since 2013, Myalgic Encephalomyelitis (M.E).

The aim was to create a final outcome portraying my emotions, set backs and physical limitations in a way that may encourage others to develop a curiosity of M.E. This leading them to face their own pre-conceptions of disability, research information, and create an open dialog on hidden disabilities.

This project was a combination of inner reflection, researching disability identity theories and collaboration with other artists. Looking into theories including Otherness, The Medical Model of disability and Neuroaesthetics, as well as drawing inspiration from Vanitas art, dancers such as Yvonne Rainer, Martha Graham and Barbara Morgan and readings, 'The Body and Everyday Life', 'Dancing Practices: Seeing and sensing the Moving Body' lead to a final outcome consisting of:

- A film focusing primarily on the physical limitations of M.E and the knock on mental health effects, 'Myalgic Encephalomyelitis'

- A film focusing on the mental health effects of M.E, 'Eret Turbatum', heavily influenced by the symbolic Vanitas painting era

- A scrapbook, producing art through an exploration of my own feelings, or a brief given to another artist. Direct quotes from others with M.E.

Please have a watch and explore the content on this page. I'd love to hear any feedback or answer any questions that may have arisen for you. You can contact me here.

The garment in the film 'Myalgic Encephalomyelitis' was handcrafted by designer Alice Evans and explored her own issues coming to terms with M.E/CFS. The model is Samuel Strange, who explored a personal description of my disability through contemporary dance, creating many physical positions I often find myself stuck in with M.E.

The music in the film 'Eret Turbatum' was produced specifically for this film by musician Jack Chapman.

Various artists helped contribute towards the scrapbook, including Portrait and still life artist Liam Godfrey, animator Amy Lucas and Stippling artist Poppy Stamp, as well as my own exploration of artwork.