SEIZURE workshop

In November 2013 we hosted our first ever Art-Science workshop, which brought together neuroscientists, artists and people with epilepsy  to create collaborative art.  The workshop aimed to engage people with epilepsy with current scientific research, and to engage scientists with the realities of living with a neurological condition, through a unique collaboration facilitated by artists.  In doing so, this workshop aimed to highlight themes that patients, scientists and those with little prior knowledge or experience with epilepsy (the artists) felt were important to convey to the general public.  Participants worked on projects ranging from print-making to wire sculpture, mixed media to social sculpture; all the time sharing their own experiences of epilepsy.  

A trust was built between scientists and patients, and tales both humorous and tragic were exchanged; allowing for laughter and heart felt moments. Knowledge was exchanged, both medical and personal; what you should eat when you have epilepsy, what types of surgeries are available, how certain medicines work, that certain dogs are trained to recognise the onset of a seizure before you do.  

Beyond Seizures Documentary

"I realised that the images I see and work with everyday are little pieces of art in themselves"! - Neuroscientist

"People don't understand epilepsy, and so they're scared of it sometimes"- Person with epilepsy

"This was one of the few opportunities families had to talk about epilepsy"- Neuroscientist

"Trying to describe a seizure is like trying to describe the colour blue to a blind person"- Person with epilepsy

"I experienced a different way of thinking about epilepsy, seeing it from different perspectives" - Neuroscientist

"I've had more conversations about epilepsy today, than I have in the last 15 years!" - Person with epilepsy

"I learned how brave people with epilepsy are"  - Artist

Thanks to Rosie Coleman for the beautiful photographs, and to Piers Bailey and Dan Bradshaw for making a documentary of the day.

This workshop was made possible by the UCL Train and Engage fund.