Joos Boon (1997) is a visual artist who was born deaf. Her personal experiences form her inspiration for her artwork, which reflect how she looks at the world without the distractions of spoken word and sound. Her eyes are her ears. With her artwork she aims to inspire but also does not shun away from casting a critical eye at society.
a journey of grief & love
My mother kept silent for a long time about my aunt’s suicide at the age of 30. As a child, I felt that there was more to her passing and I kept asking about it until I finally heard what had really happened. The topic of suicide is still a big taboo and I think it is important that people can talk about such tragedies. Last year, my mother and I went on a trip together in search of answering the question: Who was Bernadette? Our journey started in Lourdes where my grandfather and grandmother went to pray for their wish to have children. After this visit, six children were born. Bernadette was the second child of the family and was named after Saint Bernadette.
I discovered that Bernadette had certain things in common with Saint Bernadette. They both died young, stood up for the sick and poor people, and were passionate about human rights. This trip has brought me closer to my mother. I see how Bernadette lives on in my mother’s work and provides inspiration. My mother started a hospice for young adults (16-40 years old). During her sister’s illness, my mother received no guidance on how to deal with the situation. My mother’s sadness that resurfaced during our trip has touched me. I also felt the love she still has for her sister.
It makes me happy to see how Bernadette continues to live on through my mother, especially in her work. She cares so lovingly for vulnerable people and it feels like she is continuing the work that Bernadette started. The circle is complete. Life goes on into the next generation. What do I take with me in the future where it is still empty on this sheet?
The journey is not over yet. A book is forthcoming about the life of Bernadette.
