Artist Sandra Woods Transforms Pain into Purpose Through Painting

When faced with chronic pain from a rare bone disease and a diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment, artist Sandra Woods turned to painting as a new avenue for expression and purpose. Once a Bioethics Research professional, Woods has found a renewed sense of direction in her home studio in Pierrefonds, where her vibrant watercolours come alive under the light.

Woods’s paintings shimmer with pigments that sparkle in hues of amethyst and garnet. She describes her work environment, saying, “You should be able to see some kind of shimmer around here.” Despite the challenges posed by her condition, she has adapted her creative process. A dynamic splint supports her dominant right hand, allowing her to maneuver a paintbrush with innovation. “I hold the paintbrush with my thumb. If I’m using a larger brush, sometimes I’ll stick the brush under the splint and paint like an extension of my hand,” she explains, demonstrating her technique.

Since she began painting, Woods has gained recognition for her art, which often reflects her personal struggles with chronic pain. “People with chronic pain will often talk about experiencing a wave of pain or a flare of pain. So this series focuses on waves and volcanoes, kind of eruptions of pain or flares of pain,” she notes. Her work resonates with many who have faced similar challenges.

In an effort to foster community and connection among artists, Woods founded the West Island Art Studio Circuit, now featuring 11 artists, each contributing their unique stories and talents. For the month of September 2023, selected pieces from this group will be displayed at Studio 77 in Pointe-Claire Village.

“I wanted to prove to myself—and to others who might be experiencing cognitive issues or disabilities—that we can still do things, be involved, and lead in our communities,” Woods emphasizes.

David Epstein, owner of Studio 77, describes the space as a welcoming hub for artists and their admirers. “The artists picked up on it and they bring their friends. It became a place where the artistic community gets together,” he says. This initiative not only highlights the talents of artists like Woods but also encourages a supportive environment for creativity and collaboration.

Woods’s journey exemplifies how individuals can turn personal adversity into impactful art, demonstrating resilience and inspiring others to engage with their own creativity, regardless of their circumstances.