ME/CFS being a global condition, the Chronic Market has brought together artists of all disciplines from across the globe, including multidisplinary artist Terra Dumont of New Zealand.
In her words: “My mother is an artist, so I grew up spending a lot of time creating art. As a child and teenager I especially enjoyed doing realistic specimen drawings of insects, spiders and plants.
When I went to university I focused my energy on study, tramping, climbing, alpinism and environmental activism. Art more or less fell by the wayside. Then, on 18 November 2011, my 23rd birthday, everything changed. I came down with a small virus and never recovered. I was diagnosed with ME/CFS about a year later. Since then I have been relearning how to live my life. Re-engaging with art has been an important part of this as I am unable to work and my other pastimes are no longer possible for me.
Part of this journey has been creating a new relationship with art. Realism and illustration takes more concentration than I have and can trigger my anxiety when something doesn’t turn out like I want it to. As such, I have moved towards more interpretive forms of art such as copper jewellery, Lino printing, knitting and embroidery. All my work is inspired by my love of nature.
I recently went on an art retreat in which I began renewing my relationship with painting and drawing. I look forward to exploring this relationship over the coming months.
In addition to my products on the Chronic Market, feel free to check out my Facebook page. I also do pieces on commission- feel free to reach out if you have anything in mind.”