An exhibition of artwork inspired by a young man’s leukemia diagnosis has opened in Brechin.
The collection, called ‘The Things We Lost’ by Dundee born Josh Moir, 29,was mounted after an invitation by cultural body Angus Alive to hold his first exhibition.
Exploring the theme of perceived loss after a cancer diagnosis, Josh also celebrates the many young people who are facing their diagnoses with bravery, and are striving towards ‘the new normal’ many clinicians discuss with them.
Josh said: “This is my first public exhibition, and I’m very excited.
“Knowing that the exhibition deadline was approaching has spurred on my work, but it has still taken around a year of preparation to get to this point.
“My preferred medium is using printmaking, but I also use a lot of digital collage, which of course is a reflection of the source material.
Josh, who has been in remission for almost three years, explained he had discussed his art at a meeting with his consultant, Dr Tauro, who was excited about the exhibition, and retrieved some of Josh’ previous bone marrow samples.
These were photographed under a microscope, and the resulting images have been embedded in some of the artworks.
“I always thought that cancer was something that happened to other people, but in reality, sometimes it just happens.
“Even though people can look after themselves and watch their diet, cancer can still strike for no apparent reason.
“There is an upsurge in awareness about cancer, but in this country we still have difficulty in speaking about serious illness and death, and I hope that this exhibition and others like it will help people have those conversations.
Reaching out to other young people affected by cancer, Josh realised that there were similarities in their stories and the challenges they faced.
“A cancer diagnosis for a young person can have different consequences than for someone who is older.
“For example it can impact on fertility, getting a mortgage and even buying holiday insurance.
“Although the diagnosis brings a sense of loss for many people, it can also be a transformative experience for patients.”
Mr Moir hopes that the exhibition will be a stepping stone in his career as an artist.
The exhibition runs until October 13 at the Brechin Town House Museum, and opens Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 5pm.
