“The Writing is on the Wall”

“The Writing is on the Wall” – acrylic, ink on paper. 50cm. x 70cm.

In this chaotic painting my prime intent was to include text, I am not sure why. Maybe it is out of concern about my worsening handwriting, or more likely because I am now able to include text with a certain authority. Words that mattered little to me a year ago have now assumed gravitas, they form part of the Parkinson’s story, which is now also my story, and so they belong.

Words, like dopamine, bradykinesia and leva-dopa, can be spelt out amongst the more established symbols, taking their place in a personal abstract vacabulary that forms the image. Without enough Dopamine, brain cells that control movement die, the ability to control movement is drastically reduced, – “welcome to Parkinson’s disease, Davie”.

Text was spontaneously scrawled across  the surface with twigs dipped in various inks, I thought these final words to be a fitting title.  For no matter what – Parkinson’s is a degenerative condition, “the writing is on the wall”, and inevitably, there can be only one victor.

Cheers Dave.

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Author: David Carroll - Visual Artist

David is a contemporary artist using many types of media to create abstract artwork. Born in 1947 in North Wales, he migrated to Australia in 1970 with his wife and children. After many years working in the electrical trades, David went on to further his education, graduating from Southern Cross University, Lismore, NSW. with a Bachelors Degree of Visual Art (Honours). David and his wife, now great-grandparents, live in the Northern Rivers region of NSW. where David works in his studio most days. His abstract artwork is inspired by memory; not so much to depict specific events but rather, to reflect emotional situations that are infused by present moments of recollection. In recent times, after being diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, his work has taken a new and positive direction. His 'Elemental Representions" use colour, form and symbolic motifs, to create a personal visual story line. View all posts by David Carroll - Visual Artist