My recent art installation 670, in QEII Square, Auckland was quite a taxing day. Not only the hours and physical exertion of continuously stencilling feet on to the ground from 8am to 7:16pm but the at times heavy and emotional reaction and interaction from the crowds that visited the artwork.
I was approached by 6 prostate cancer survivors throughout the day each with their own unique story backed up with a tinge of regret and not catching the disease earlier, but with an immeasurable sense of good fortune at receiving a second chance at life.
Peter from New Jersey approached me late in the morning, fresh off the plane from LAX and only in Auckland for two days, his appreciation of the artwork and willingness to talk about his ordeal with prostate cancer resonated with me and reaffirmed my drive to finish the work and challenge kiwi men to open up about their health. This artwork is for Peter and all men like him.
In the early afternoon I was visited by Dr Peter Tillman (another Peter), a retired GP, and long time champion for men's health. His passion for the cause and immense energy for the fight against prostate cancer was a gift I will hold on to. He later returned with some shoes for the artwork with the number 27 written on the toes, the number of patients he diagnosed in the UK with enlarged prostates but who later lost their fight against the disease. This artwork is for those lost. I am sure throughout his career he also helped many men with early detection to be able to conquer the cancer and live long and fulfilling lives. Dr Tillman's advocacy work will continue until we see results and improved education on men's health issues.
A young woman clearly struck with the immense loss we face as a nation took off her jandals, and placed them in the artwork, she later revealed she had recently lost her father to a long battle with prostate cancer and padded away barefoot leaving her personal tribute to her father amongst the many others. This artwork is for her dad.
Throughout the day I had a large number of discussions with women, all agreeing that the men in their lives were often too stubborn or pigheaded to go to the doctor when they were sick. Now I am the first to stand up and say I have been pigheaded in the past when it has come to my own health, a cold is one thing, but I suffered for several years with Chrons disease before getting feed up and seeking help, to be diagnosed with Chrons and then placed on a simple drug with which I manage the disease and lead a normal, active, pain free life. This artwork is for those partners who have lost their loved one to Prostate cancer.
In preparation for the artwork I also equipped myself with knowledge about prostate cancer, and the prevention/detection of the disease. I was able to pass on my rudimentary knowledge to many young men (and women) about the ease at which detection can be made. A simple blood test measuring you PSA levels is enough to pass you for another 6 months or warrant further investigation. A simple motto of "use it or lose it" seemed popular, although not scientifically proven, it surely can't hurt. This artwork is for those partners who help to use it, so as not to lose it.
