Flourish

Artist: Helen Kostoglou

Eleni (Helen) Kostoglou, a visual artist since the 1960's has held many exhibitions over the years. A major exhibitor at the Glendi Greek Festival, and designing the Greek Orthodox Community banner for the Migration Museum and Adelaide Festival Centre are just some of her many accomplishments.Helen has been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and Lewy Body dementia and was understandably frustrated that she was unable to produce her artwork to the standard which she had come to expect.

Alzheimer's Australia SA (AASA) has helped Helen to re-engage her artistic passion through working with artist Michele Wilkie to explore new ways for her to express herself through her art work. The amazing result will be presented in the exhibition entitled 'Flourish' which will be held at the Pepper Street Art Gallery in September.

Helen's work with the mentoring program has meant she once again has found her inspiration and motivation, her depression has reduced significantly and her family are pleased to see her smiling and happy again. Helen is a fantastic example of how we can still lead a life with meaning and joy after the diagnosis of dementia.

Proceeds from sales from the exhibition will go to the AASA Art Mentoring program to assist Helen and other professional artists diagnosed with dementia to continue their work.

The exhibition opened by Marie Alford, General Manager, Dementia Care and Development Alzheimer's Australia SA and the Hon John McKellar AM ED - Chairman of the AASA Board of Directors.