‘Neglect’
Rachel Gale
A patient on the stroke unit had neglect on one side of his body and I wanted to try and symbolise this with the hope of recovery and progress at times seemingly one-sided. I also wanted to show the confusion of the patient in this situation.
Whole Person Care – Year One
I like how the simplicity of the drawing, the act of creating a simple circular piece, symbolises the ease at which a stroke can occur; the simple blocking of a cranial artery due to a small clot. However the vast different in the right side to left side, in terms of array of colours, symbolises the destruction a stroke can cause. The vibrant, extensive colour scheme, compared to the null, dead left side. A wonderful piece of contrast, between the simple and the complex.
At a first glance, you are immediately drawn to the bright colours of the right hand side. I believe that the painting actually symbolises hope; showing that whilst the patient might focus on the dark, null and neglected side of them, we focus on the side of them that is still functioning and all the good things that are still to come for them. This is what I believe whole patient and holistic care is all about.
This painting is interesting because although quite abstract, it accurately depicts what the artist intended. The left half of the page represents neglect i.e nothing, emptiness hence the use of grey. The right half of the page represents hope of recovery hence the use of warm, inviting colours. The blurry appearance it gives represents the confusion of the patient.
I really like this painting. At first glance it dose not look like it is related to medicine however upon reading the description it was clear. I feel it is an interesting view on neglect after a stroke. Almost depicting one side of the body to have lost its life whilst the other is very vibrant and full of light.
A powerful painting, subtly highlighting a number of aspects affecting stroke patients. The dull and gloomy darker side physically mirrors the symptoms of stroke, such as numbness and weakness across one side of the body, with the harsh contrast between sides highlighting the sudden and unexpected onset of stroke. As well as reflecting the physical symptoms caused by stroke, this piece also symbolises the emotional turmoil and perception during the recovery period. The theme of confusion is suggested using the blurred and hazy painting technique, while the juxtaposing vibrant and sun-like side emanates positivity and resilience.