Savage Mystic GalleryArtist Reception: "Citizens of That Other Space" by Candace Garlock

As an artist, Candace Nicol Garlock uses an array of mediums in her work. The coalescence of printmaking techniques, painting, photography (and sculpture, too!) overlap and converge with color, texture and line in a collaboration of mixed, experimental beauty. With her appreciation of the interconnectedness of everything, she explores relationships: human and environment, human and animal, human and human. 

"Living with a chronic illness often feels like inhabiting a different realm, a space where the rules of engagement differ profoundly from those of the world around us. Long-term health conditions often affect daily functioning and quality of life. The illnesses can be invisible, making it challenging for others to understand the limitations and experiences of those affected. There is an identity shift from normality, navigating through feelings of loss — loss of health, independence, and the ability to engage in activities that once defined us. This shift can lead to the emergence of a new identity, one that incorporates the illness as a significant part of their life narrative. This identity is complex; it is intertwined with resilience and adaptation."

"Learning to live with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) has created a new sense of awareness about the societal stigma around chronic illness, primarily due to misconceptions and not 'seeing' the disability. The narrative surrounding MS frequently emphasizes a binary of 'sick' and 'healthy,' neglecting the complexities of living with a condition that fluctuates over time. This exhibit shows my own perspective of the Multiple Sclerosis journey. I hope by embracing this experience and raising awareness, society can move towards a more inclusive understanding of chronic illness, ultimately bridging the gap between those who inhabit different spaces and fostering a sense of community for all."