This is an artwork that I’ve been wanting to make for quite some time. As somebody who suffers from invisible disabilities, the reality of what people see versus how my body feels can be vastly different – and this can lead to some quite hurtful assumptions.
“Be patient with M.E” is a reminder to both those around me and myself that I can’t always do what an able bodied person can and that sometimes a little more patience is needed. Sometimes the only way I can stop my body from breaking down is to pace myself.
The concept behind the art style is that whilst I may present a relatively well put together version of myself to mask my illness, most people have never seen me when I struggle the most as I can’t leave my room. The best version of myself is presented as a finished piece, which is the version that is displayed publicly, whereas me struggling is presented as rough sketches – something usually kept hidden away in a sketchbook.
With long-COVID being found to be incredibly similar to M.E, it’s more important than ever to raise awareness for M.E and similar conditions. Chronically ill people have a tendency to hide and belittle their symptoms so to not become a “burden”, so many are blissfully unaware of how common they are.
Where to Purchase
This piece is currently with the HOME Gallery in Manchester. It will be on display in the Manchester Open 2022 Exhibition from 21st January 2022 – 27th March 2022, and will be available for purchase for £50 (artwork number: 366; catelogue number: 32339). This is a one of a kind print and no further prints of this piece will be available for sale.
Additional Information
- Completion date: 24th August 2021
- Programme used: Procreate.
- Tablet used: iPad Pro.
- Time taken: ~23 hours.
Nicola Lucy 