Getting Better Slowly
Theatre production branding design and asset creation.
I worked with theatre producer Adam Pownall and, with the support of the GAIN Charity, also undertook research with others that had experienced Guillain-Barré Syndrome. This enabled me to develop a deeper understanding of the condition and how it felt to live through it. This key work in turn informed my concepts for the design of the production’s promotional material.
Artwork concept development
At the age of 26, Adam Pownall was struck down with Guillain-Barré Syndrome. Within just three weeks of his first symptoms he was completely paralysed. It took two years for Adam to fully recover and ‘regain my body’.
‘Getting Better Slowly’, is Adam’s story, told through the dance and theatre he loves so much.
The work of prominent companies such as Candoco and Deaf Men Dancing has led to a growing awareness of disabilities within the arts. This provided inspiration as well as reassurance for Adam.
“When I was sat in my wheelchair, I remember thinking back to some workshops that I once did with Candoco and thought, even if I don’t get better, I can still have a career and work in the arts.”
“There’s such a stigma around men and illness and their ability to show their emotions. I’m glad I can be so open about illness and disability.”
The production is not only attracting fans of theatre and dance, but also other Guillain-Barré Syndrome sufferers and those that support them in a medical setting.
Adam: “After one performance, a practitioner approached me to say that she would now change the way she talked to and supported her GBS patients. It was wonderful to hear that my story would make a real difference to the care of others going through this experience.”
