An auto ethnographical study based on the evolving identities involved with breast cancer treatment:

‘In December 2018, I was diagnosed with Triple Negative Breast Cancer. What followed was ten months of gruelling treatment including six months of chemotherapy and several surgeries. It was the most terrifying time of my life; I am grateful to still be here to tell my story. During my time following the diagnosis, I documented my experiences in an online blog and kept a photo journal of my changing looks caused by the treatment.’ (Jo Samuel). 

As an interactive artist, Jo Samuel has created an exhibition which investigates the role augmented reality and digital art can play on exploring the topic of changing looks during cancer treatment within a gallery setting. A number of augmented reality pieces are on show, which give visitors a variety of different experiences around the gallery space. Videos, digital art and artefacts are also displayed. With the help of some incredible women who have also experienced chemotherapy induced hair loss, this exhibition hopes to raise understanding of what it is really like to lose your hair and have your identity completely altered.

Professor Angela Pickard, Director of Sidney De Haan Research Centre for Arts and Health is researching and evaluating the project with Jo Samuel.

If you are interested in visiting this free exhibition, full details are listed on the poster below: