Observations in Time

Recently, Glasgow Memory Clinic commissioned a piece of artwork by Gerard M Burns – “Alzheimer and Fleming – Observations in Time.” This fascinating piece of artwork tells a story of science, medicine and life. We are delighted to have this piece of artwork hanging on the walls of the clinic alongside wonderful landscape photographs of Scotland by Colin Prior and abstract works by Albert Enz.

This painting was a collaborative work between renowned Scottish artist Gerard M Burns and Glasgow Memory Clinic, a centre that has been designed to conduct modern day clinical trials exploring potential new treatments for Alzheimer’s. The painting depicts Dr Alois Alzheimer and Dr Alexander Fleming with images from medicine that are relevant and blended to tell a story of science, medicine and life. Read the full narrative here.

“One of the most fascinating things about any artwork in my opinion is that it only truly lives and breathes via the experience of those who stand before
it in the years to come.” – Gerard M Burns

About the artist

Gerard M Burns was born in Glasgow in 1961. He studied Fine Art at Glasgow School of Art and graduated in 1983. After graduating, he taught art at St. Aloysius College, Glasgow which he left in 1999 to pursue painting full time.  Since then this commitment has resulted in his current standing as one of Scotland’s most respected artists.

Find  out more about Gerard M Burns.

Art Therapy for Alzheimer’s disease

Art therapy has proven to be a powerful tool for treating Alzheimer’s disease. This applies whether you create art or enjoy art. It stimulates the brain, stirs emotions and can allow someone who struggles to speak to communicate in a different way.

As language is affected fairly early in the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, it can be particularly frustrating for a loved one to watch the person they care for really struggle to get the right words out. Expressing yourself through art is a very liberating way for suffers to convey thoughts and emotions. Equally, some museums now conduct tours specifically for people who have dementia because viewing paintings and pieces of art has proven so successful at boosting mood, self-esteem and most importantly re-opening the lines of communication.