NEURO PORTRAIT: inspiring art and science

Photo exhibit dives into the heart of creativity and the human brain

WATCH the video clip (30sec): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7LuKKTdgFzw  

(English transcript below)

MONTREAL – Starting on August 26 the public is invited to discover The Neuro through the lens of twelve of Quebec’s most talented and inventive photographers and artists. This unique exhibit titled Neuro Portrait explores neuroscience and a world-renowned Quebec institution - the Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital, of McGill University and the MUHC - that is uncovering the secrets of the human brain and providing the most advanced compassionate care to patients with neurological disorders. 

Yves Ferland, a former patient, initiated Neuro Portrait after he underwent a brain tumour operation at The Neuro in 2010. As part of the exhibit, Mr. Ferland shows a series of images depicting a brain surgery operation from the perspective of the patient.  “I feel that people deserve to know more about this extraordinary place, the passionate physicians and nurses who treat and care for patients suffering from really challenging neurological disorders, and the dedicated researchers who are looking for cures,” said Mr. Ferland. “Neuro Portrait is a window into a scientific and medical hub of innovation and vision right in the heart of Montreal.”

Neuro Portrait is a tour de force of photographic and visual creativity. Neurons shine like stars in a galaxy, images are painted with light, thousands of particles combine in a video representation of a lifetime of memories, a neurosurgeon’s healing touch is captured on film, and the face of world-famous neuropsychologist Brenda Milner is portrayed by an extraordinary technique of painting with fire and soot. The photographers explored the notion of creativity in science but they also took the opportunity to explore some of the science behind the creativity of well-known artists including comedian Francois Perusse and soprano Gianna Corbisiero, using state-of-the-art brain imaging technology.

This inspiring exhibit was made possible by the generosity and creativity of the artists, faculty and staff of The Neuro and many volunteers and collaborators.  The Neuro thanks Toshiba, official sponsor for this traveling exhibit, our partners at each location listed below and Déménagement La Capitale. The video was made possible by the support of the Montreal Neurological Institute Centre of Excellence in Commercialization and Research Award from the Government of Canada.

Neuro Portrait will be exhibited at major Montreal locations:

Complexe Desjardins                                                    26 August - 6 September, 2013

Complexe de la Gare Centrale                                                  16 - 27 September, 2013

Place Ville-Marie                                                            7 - 18 October, 2013

Centre de commerce mondial de Montréal        28 October - 8 November, 2013

Photographers and artists:

Jean-Francois Berube www.jfberube.com/

Martine Doucet www.martinedoucetphoto.com

Martine Doyon www.martinedoyon.com

Adrien Duey www.adrienduey.com

Yves Ferland http://aehvia.com/

Francois Fortin www.francoisfortin.com

Yves Lacombe www.ylphoto.ca

Ron Levine www.ronlevinephotography.com

Dominique Malaterre www.tilt.ca

Sean O’Neill www.seanoneillphotography.com

Steven Spazuk www.spazuk.com

Monica Colman

Video transcript:

Three years ago, Yves Ferland received a devastating diagnosis -a brain tumour.

From this experience was born a unique exhibit, where science inspires art and art inspires science. Twelve talented Quebec artists, with Francois Perusse and the researchers, doctors and personnel of The Neuro.

For more information or to arrange interviews: Anita Kar, Communications, The Neuro (514) 398-3376 or anita.kar [at] mcgill.ca

The Neuro

The Neuro is an academic medical centre dedicated to neuroscience.  As a research and teaching institute of McGill University, The Neuro is at the centre of the neuroscience mission of the McGill University Health Centre.  The eminent neurosurgeon Wilder Penfield founded The Neuro in 1934.  Since then, The Neuro has achieved international renown for its integration of research, outstanding patient care and advanced training.  The Neuro has a world-class staff in cellular and molecular neuroscience, brain imaging, cognitive neuroscience, as well as in the study and treatment of epilepsy, multiple sclerosis and neuromuscular disorders.  For more information, please visit www.theneuro.com