Artist story
Why my ‘strength-portrait’ will appear at Edinburgh Macmillan Art Show
How a self portrait helped the recovery from breast cancer
Kirstie Lamont knows she’s very lucky. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2021 but it was detected early. Still at Stage One. Even though the treatment was less severe than many face, it took a toll on her physically and mentally. The experience left here in a dark place. She decided to use art to help her recovery. So, how did her portrait end up in the Edinburgh Macmillan Art Show?
“I looked at myself in the mirror and it was difficult to recognise who I was. It was like a different person. I had changed and I had to accept that. But saying you have to become comfortable and happy with the new you and doing it are two very separate things. That’s when it occurred to me that art might help.”
“I wanted to produce a self-portrait. A nude that could chart the changes to my body. Only, I have absolutely no artistic ability at all! So I asked my artist friend, Suzanne Williams-Kelly, if she would help to create what we called our ‘strength-portrait’,” says Kirstie.
“I didn’t want the painting to focus on my scars because, for me, having cancer affected my whole body image. It had shattered my self-esteem. I wanted to do something that reminded me that I am a strong and confident person. That I am still me!”
Suzanne is an established artist based in Alloa who has had many shows and exhibitions throughout Scotland. Today her work is displayed in galleries and open spaces, including her ‘Black Lives Matter’ sculpture that is currently on display in the grounds of Stirling University. She was very happy to help Kirstie in this very personal project.
Making an exhibition of herself
Kirstie’s attitude, unsurprisingly, was that if she’d come this far then why stop here. And, she knew just what she wanted to do. That’s why ‘Reclining Kirstie: A strength-portrait’ will be one of the artworks featured during the Edinburgh Macmillan Art Show.
“It’s fair to say that Macmillan was responsible for allowing my dad to spend his last few days at home with his family.”
Kirstie comments: “I was honoured to be asked to be part of the organising committee for the art show in January this year. I had attended last year and knew what a great event it is and for a great cause. It took me a little time but then I thought why not ask if my portrait could be part of the show. Especially as Macmillan Cancer Support is a charity that’s very close to my heart.”
“When my dad passed Macmillan provided amazing support to his wife and the family. They helped his wife secure the benefits she needed and funding towards carers. They even provided the bed for my dad. It’s fair to say that Macmillan was responsible for allowing my dad to spend his last few days at home with his family.”