Page 4 - Brain Project 2016 Commemorative Catalogue

The Brain Project unfolded at a breakneck the number is projected to rise to 1.4 million in 2031.
pace. A call for submissions in September 2015 In addition to the heartbreak of having someone you
received a tremendous response. Altogether, 100 love lose their cognitive function, the cost to society is
artists were selected to create the brain sculptures. enormous when around-the-clock care and the lost
Singer Michael Bublé, social media sensation Kim earnings of family caregivers are considered.
Kardashian West and her daughter North West, The brain is one of the last frontiers of medical
actor Sarah Rafferty, Muse frontman Matthew science – and the message threaded throughout all
Bellamy, the Toronto Raptors and Toronto Blue Jays aspects of the project was that everyone has a stake
all lent their star power. in better brain health.
The Brain Project was featured on television and While the sculptures were on display, it is
radio and in various online and print publications, estimated that 10 million people stopped, admired
and it filled conversations and images on social the artistry and creativity, read the plaques and
media as the sculptures were put on display at considered what brain health means to them and
Nathan Phillips Square, the Distillery District,
Union Station, High Park and 38 other high-profile “
locations from June through August, 2016. In
October, all the sculptures were brought together This public art installation raises awareness
for a special two-week showing at Yorkdale, with
select works then auctioned off to raise funds for and inspires people to think about their
Baycrest. Afterward, some sculptures remained on
display in a variety of Toronto venues courtesy of own brain health throughout every stage
their sponsoring organizations.
The Brain Project exemplifies the art-brain of life while bringing beauty to our city
connection. Design begins in the mind’s eye – through art and once again putting us on
and art is a universal language that can awaken
memories, encourage dialogue and inspire the the map as an innovator.
sharing of ideas. – Toronto Mayor John Tory
Research shows the many ways in which
art-based therapies can positively impact issues ”
related to aging and brain health. One of the brain
sculptures was created by residents, patients, family their loved ones. Almost 10,000 people voted for
members, staff and volunteers at the Donald and their favourite sculptures, while others shared
Elaine Rafelman Creative Arts Studio at Baycrest. images on social media and texted donations to
Among the participating artists, there were feelings support the cause.
of purpose, achievement and pride. All this was accomplished and more. Thanks to
In some cases, The Brain Project artists were The Brain Project, more that 1 million dollars (pre-
motivated to take part because a family member auction) was raised for Baycrest and more people
or close friend suffered from Alzheimer’s disease, are aware of the need for care and education, as well
stroke or a traumatic brain injury. as support for family caregivers and research that
According to estimates, close to 750,000 people in aims to prevent brain disease and successfully treat
Canada have some form of cognitive impairment and all manner of neurological disorders.

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