Annick Germeys, member of the European Dementia Carers Working Group (EDCWG), has generously donated one of her ceramic sculptures, Brain & Bean, to Alzheimer Europe.
Annick, who is both a family carer and ceramic artist, created the piece as part of her personal reflection on dementia and its impact on her life. The sculpture draws inspiration from two powerful symbols: brain coral, with its intricate and maze-like patterns, and a bean, representing growth, origin and new beginnings.
Explaining the inspiration behind the work, Annick describes the brain as "a universe of memories" that helps shape our identity and preserve our personal history. The sculpture reflects both the resilience and the fragility of human life, bringing together the complexity of the human mind and the enduring nature of human dignity.
"Behind every diagnosis is a person whose identity is far greater than the disease," says Annick. Through her donation, she hopes the sculpture will encourage conversation, foster connection and remind people that even as memories begin to fade, dignity remains untouched.
For Annick, Brain & Bean emerged from a deeply personal search for meaning as dementia became an increasingly present part of her daily life. By donating the sculpture to Alzheimer Europe, she hopes its message will reach beyond her own experience and resonate with others affected by dementia.
We would like to warmly thank Annick for this thoughtful and meaningful contribution. We are honoured to receive Brain & Bean and to share the story behind this beautiful artwork with our community.
Readers who would like to learn more about the sculpture and Annick's creative process can visit her blog:
https://annickenkeramiek.wordpress.com/2024/05/09/brain-bean/
