UNIVERSITY OF THE WITWATERSRAND, JOHANNESBURG

Elaine Hirschowitz (born 1936)

 



No title, 2007

Jicl`ee print on canvas

In this work the artist explores the inner darkness that followed a diagnosis of breast cancer and a radical unilateral mastectomy in 2002. She says: 'How can one represent the darkness of despair, the mysteriousness of health and illness and the vast scientific mechanisms of medicine with its diagnostic tools that pervade the subjective experience of intraphysic and inter-subjective events while at the same time producing an artwork with aesthetic resonance?'

Instead of purging her memory of nightmare images of medical and surgical equipment, CT scans and x-rays used in the diagnosis and treatment of her disease, she uses these images as her inspiration in transforming her illness into a meaningful and powerful experience. This image visually charts her course from a sensory experience of physical, mental and emotional pain into a concrete manifestation of hope and survival.

From what demons do we run?

For what purpose do we strive?

Though the clouds may mask the sun

We will survive.

 



The Wailing Wall, 2007

Jiclee print on hannemuhle paper

Donated by the artist ?..

'This work was inspired by the repetitive nature of the CT scans which reminded me of the stone blocks of the ancient ruins of the "Wailing Wall" in the old city of Jerusalem. This most holy site, the remains of the second Hebrew Temple, symbolises my ongoing struggle with the repetitive diagnostic tests, x-rays and surgical and medical treatment required for my fight against cancer. My prayer for a full recovery epitomises the spiritual nature of the hope that the western wall generates in the millions of people who pray there.'




Lucretia, 2007

Jiclee print on hannemuhle paper

This work portrays the artist defending herself from stealthy stalking pursuers. It represents her attempts to ward off the disease process, epitomising her struggle against cancer. The CT scans provide a background for this escape.

The bible story of the rape of Lucretia provided the title of this print which symbolises the artist's emotional experience of cancer. Instead of purging the nightmare of blood tests and CT scans used in the diagnosis and treatment of her condition, they become her inspiration for transforming her journey into a meaningful and powerful image. It speaks to all who have travelled the long and painful road to recovery.