Pierrefonds Artist Overcomes Chronic Pain Through Painting

In a remarkable turnaround, artist Sandra Woods has transformed her life and career through painting after facing significant health challenges. Diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment and a rare bone disease resulting in chronic pain, Woods had to leave her position in Bioethics Research. Now, from her studio in Pierrefonds, she has discovered a new purpose and expression in her art.

Woods’s studio is filled with vibrant watercolour pigments that reflect her personal journey. Using a dynamic splint to support her dominant right hand, she has adapted her technique to overcome the difficulties posed by her condition. “I was struck with a rare disease that causes pretty severe chronic pain, potentially bone and joint issues, which is why I wear this several hours a day to prevent the bones from melting,” Woods explained. Despite the challenges, she has learned to use the splint creatively, demonstrating how she holds her paintbrush in unique ways to continue her work.

Over the past few years, Woods has received recognition for her artwork, which often draws from her experiences with chronic pain. “People with chronic pain will often talk about experiencing a wave of pain or a flare of pain. So this series focuses on waves and volcanoes, kind of eruptions of pain or flares of pain,” she shared. Her ability to convey such deep emotions through her art has resonated with many, highlighting the experiences of those living with similar challenges.

Woods has also made significant contributions to the local art community by founding the West Island Art Studio Circuit. This initiative showcases the talents of 11 diverse artists, each sharing their unique stories and artistic expressions. For the month of September 2023, selected works from the circuit will be displayed at Studio 77 in Pointe-Claire Village.

The owner of Studio 77, David Epstein, emphasized the importance of community within the space. “The artists picked up on it and they bring their friends, and it became a place where the artistic community basically gets together,” he noted. This collaborative environment not only fosters creativity but also provides support for artists facing personal struggles.

Woods’s journey illustrates her determination to inspire others who may be dealing with cognitive or physical disabilities. “As a disabled artist, I wanted to prove to myself, but also to others who might be having cognitive issues or disabilities, that we can still do things and still be involved and we can still be leaders in our communities,” she stated.

Through her art and advocacy, Sandra Woods is not only redefining her own path but also paving the way for others to find their voice and purpose, regardless of the obstacles they face.