"When she's painting, she's her true self."
At the age of 15, Emily Bigioni has already had a solo art show, held recently at the Varley Art Gallery in Unionville, Ontario.
The highlight of the exhibition was a self-portrait Emily painted last year with help from her mother and art teacher. Typically, Emily does abstract paintings. Her mother, Sandra, wasn't sure what Emily would paint for the assignment. She was as surprised as anyone with the remarkable likeness Emily created.
As pleased as she was with her daughter's ability, Sandra was more pleased to see Emily's reaction. "It was the first time I really saw her feel proud. I could see that she felt successful."
Emily has a brain condition known as pachygyria, similar to cerebral palsy, which prevents her from speaking or walking. She uses a wheelchair and can answer 'yes' or 'no' to questions with a smile or 'no' gesture.
Emily has been participating in Holland Bloorview programs for 14 years, from swimming to arts programs to summer camp. Emily has also participated in programs elsewhere, but keeps returning to Holland Bloorview for the feeling of community she finds there.
Emily especially enjoys art classes, which she began eight years ago. For her, it's a stimulating opportunity for self-expression and socializing. For her family, it's a vital break from the 24 hour care that Emily requires.
Emily attended opening night of her art exhibition and was excited to see all the paintings up. She enjoyed watching the many friends who came to admire the artworks and celebrate the artist. Her mother, Sandra, was struck by the reaction of many people who knew Emily. "They said, 'Wow, we didn't know she could do that.' These people had known Emily for a long time, but viewing the paintings allowed them to see Emily in a new way."
Now that Emily has shown her creative side, what's next? Sandra wants Emily to feel good about her own place in the world. "I want her to feel proud of what she can do, that she's participating in society. And I want her to always have a sense of community. Right now she has that at Holland Bloorview."
