Oils on canvas 500 x 500mm

“Dave” depicts a boy doing a backflip. In the background a wall is painted with a blue figure, a cityscape and the word “Dave.”

The backflipping child “Dave” represents the person we really are. The boy is performing a great feat for his age. So to, those with disability, neurodiverse or with chronic health problems are achieving great feats just to get through day-to-day life. However, this is often invisible. To their peers they may perceived as underperforming or seen as less than socially.

The blue figure on the wall asks the question “Who is Dave?” and represents the space where Daves identity sits. But which one? The identity others assign, the identity Dave assigns himself or the identity derived from knowing all the facts of Daves circumstances.

A discussion on identity and self worth.  Focusing on how disabled, neurodiverse and those with long chronic health issues are perceived, within their own peer groups, family, work, and the wider community. “Dave” addresses the identity that others assign to us, that we assign to others and that we assign to ourselves.  Its impact on our self-worth.   “Dave” was the subject of a TIMBA (This Is My Brave Australia) talk in 2023.  While “Dave” is on a canvas, this is a study for a full-scale mural.

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