A Diagnosis of Exclusion



Juliet Chenery-Robson’s work investigates the aura of scepticism surrounding the illness Myalgic Encephalopathy, usually known as M.E. Often referred to as the disease of a thousand names M.E. affects over 250,000 people in the UK and many thousands more worldwide. Yet, there is still a great uncertainty surrounding its causes and existence. Through her detailed research, investigation and photographic works Chenery-Robson makes this devastating illness visible to an often disbelieving audience.



‘A Diagnosis of Exclusion’ displays a series of powerful photographic works, conveying the alienation, social exclusion and loss of identity prevalent in the shadow of this disease.



Chenery-Robson invites the viewer to test their own notion and understanding of M.E. through this series of hospital images and portraits. Trapped in the ‘kingdom of the sick’ the sufferer seeks comfort and reassurance in their attempt to cope with this illness’ often severe and disabling symptoms.



The individuals in the portraits look out at the viewer, seemingly in an attempt to challenge your concept of M.E, willing you to understand and recognise the reality of this frequently life destroying illness.



A graduate of the University of Sunderland and a selected Axis MAstar, Chenery-Robson has recently exhibited work at the Northern Gallery for Contemporary Art. A practicing visual artist, Chenery-Robson’s research and photographic work relating to M.E. is still ongoing.



Laura Rutter

Durham Art Gallery



Current exhibition: 24 April - 6 June 2010, Durham Art Gallery, UK.



For further info visit: www.axisweb.org/artist/julietcheneryrobson