To mark Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month this July, Gold Coast Health’s Creative Health Hub will exhibit a vibrant collection of landscape paintings by local artist Graeme Macdonald.
The exhibition will be held in the Grand Central gallery, located in the main foyer of Gold Coast University Hospital (GCUH), and will be open to staff, patients and the public throughout the month.
Graeme, who underwent a laryngectomy several years ago following a diagnosis of laryngeal cancer, returned to painting during his rehabilitation. What began as a creative outlet soon became a vital part of his physical and emotional recovery.
“While I was painting, my mind was focused on the canvas, not what I’d been through,” Graeme said. “It helped me physically and emotionally. I’d encourage others to find something they love and keep at it. Painting was a great help during my recovery.”
Graeme’s work is known for its bold colours and expressive brushwork, capturing the spirit of Australian landscapes. A member of the Royal Queensland Art Society for many years, he has exhibited in the D'Arcy Doyle Art Awards and galleries across Queensland and New South Wales. His works are currently on display in the Viking Gallery on Mount Tamborine, and he continues to develop his practice under the guidance of several prominent artists.
The July exhibition not only celebrates Graeme’s artistic achievements, but also invites the community to reflect on the broader experience of those navigating life after major health events like a laryngectomy.
Penny Stabler, Senior Speech Pathologist, Head and Neck Surgical Specialties, said the exhibition is an opportunity to highlight the often-unseen personal journeys that follow complex surgeries.
“Featuring Graeme’s art during Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month highlights the importance of creativity, identity and personal fulfilment in the recovery journey of head and neck cancer patients,” Penny said. “While his artwork may not directly reflect his cancer experience, it stands as a powerful testament to life beyond treatment.”
For many individuals who undergo a laryngectomy, recovery extends far beyond the physical. Learning to speak, breathe and swallow differently can take months of rehabilitation and adjustment. Creative activities, like painting, writing, or music, have been shown to reduce stress, improve mental wellbeing, and help people reconnect with a sense of purpose.
“As a clinician who has supported and observed hundreds of individuals following laryngectomy and other head and neck cancer treatments, I’ve noticed a consistent pattern,” said Penny.
“Those who actively engage in creative pursuits or return to hobbies and interests tend to experience a significantly better quality of life. Shifting the focus from medical impairments to meaningful, enjoyable activities can be a powerful catalyst for emotional recovery and a renewed sense of normalcy.”
“For someone like Graeme, returning to his creative identity after such a major health journey is incredibly powerful. It’s also deeply meaningful that the health service that supported his treatment and recovery is now helping support this next chapter of his life as an artist.”
Throughout July, visitors to GCUH can view Graeme’s paintings and learn more about his journey through art and recovery.
“Never give up - never, ever give up,” Graeme said, quoting Winston Churchill. “That’s the best advice I can offer.”
To learn more about head and neck cancer symptoms, visit Head and Neck Cancer Australia.
