Reawakening Creativity: My Journey Back to Art After Dementia

I've always been drawn to the world of art, but a few years ago, I found myself completely disinterested in it. My motivation had dried up, leaving behind only the occasional attempt to draw abstract shapes. It left me puzzled, until a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease affecting my parietal lobes gave me the answer. Research suggests that the parietal lobes are the part of the brain responsible for controlling drawing.

Reviving My Passion

I was aware that music could serve as a therapeutic tool for people with Alzheimer's. Inspired by this, I focused on music from my youth, immersing myself in the Beatles and the Rolling Stones for a couple of weeks. Slowly, my passion for art began to rekindle.

Music as a Tool

Initially, music was a necessity for me to return to drawing; it allowed my hands to move again. Now, however, I can draw without it. My journey isn't just about reclaiming my artistic skills; it's also about staying consistent and staying happy.

Reclaiming My Space

Recovering from the dullness of a creative rut, I decided to clean my workspace. I cleared my art desk of all clutter, leaving behind pencils, papers, and my sketchbook to inspire me. My guitar, a venerated symbol of creativity, now sits out of the case, ready for use. I'm determined to be happier, and medication is helping me manage.

I want to encourage all of you to take steps to reignite your own creativity. Whether it's by cleaning out your space, immersing yourself in music, or simply giving yourself permission to dream big again. Create a declaration: I DREAM BIG AGAIN.()

Conclusion

Whether or not we believe creativity can be truly lost, it often feels like we've hit a brick wall due to a lack of inspiration. Recalling what once inspired you can help reignite that spark. Drawing is a powerful, therapeutic endeavour, and I certainly hope it helps more than just me.

Further Reading

Touching Dementia with Art Overcoming Creative Block Conquering the Creative University