An art exhibition sharing the creative work of people with Parkinson’s will take place at the OXO Gallery this month and one of our patients, Paul Nicholls, will be showcasing his creations. 

Between 18 to 29 August, the Parkinson’s Art ‘Vivid Dreams’ event will feature artwork and poetry from more than 60 artists, many of which are living with the condition.

Paul, 53, from Clacton, was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2014 and in August 2020 he underwent Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery. Speaking about his experience at Queen’s Hospital, Paul said: “The team that look after me are experts in their field. They are incredible and very approachable.

“It’s the proactive care they show which means a lot to me; contacting me to find out how I am feeling.” 

It has only been in recent years that Paul has found his passion for art, which started on his honeymoon. One of his Parkinson’s symptoms is insomnia, so quite often Paul picks up a pencil in the night and draws, as it helps him relax.

On his progression as an artist, Paul said: “I’ve developed over the years. I started using pencils, then I moved onto watercolours before using acrylics.

“I’m so grateful for the opportunity to be involved in the Parkinson’s Art exhibition. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity to showcase my work and my family will be attending.

“It’s also raising awareness because there is a misconception that only old people are diagnosed with Parkinson’s. It can happen at any age and I am proof of this. My advice is if you’ve been diagnosed and not tried art before, pick up a pencil and give it a go. You might just enjoy it!”

Parkinson’s Art founder Trevor Woollard, who is 48 and was diagnosed ten years ago, launched the non-for-profit organisation to create a platform for those suffering with the illness to showcase their work. By having a dedicated website, academy and events, Trevor hopes the ‘exposure will encourage people to take up art as a hobby.’

Speaking about the positive impact art can have on people living with Parkinson’s, Trevor said: “While exercise is great, not everybody can join in. Art helps with fine motor skills, offers escapism and when a piece of work is finished, it triggers a reward mechanism in the brain.

“People living with the condition can struggle to communicate but art helps tell a story and provides a voice in a visual aspect.”

The exhibition is free to enter and will take place between 18 to 29 August, 11am to 6pm. At the end of the exhibition, all artwork will be auctioned with the proceeds going to Parkinson’s UK Research. More details can be found online.