When it comes to art, you’ve got these folks whose stuff not only grabs your attention but also weaves a darn good story. Take Christine Lowe, a multimedia artist chilling in Cape Breton, Canada. Her ride from activism to artistry is as cool as the stuff she makes. She’s the one known for her quirky moves and a style that mixes comic book vibes with a dash of the psychedelic. Christine Lowe ain’t your regular artist; she’s got her own groove in the art scene.
The Activist Years: A Chronicle of Courage and Controversy
Christine and her husband, Russell Barth, burst onto the public activism scene in 2003, advocating for cannabis law reform in Canada. Their efforts included TV appearances, radio interviews, published letters, and the groundbreaking release of “Mommy’s Funny Medicine,” the world’s first children’s book about medical marijuana. Christine, a lifelong sufferer of epilepsy, brought attention to her condition by bravely capturing one of her grand mal seizures on video.
This pivotal moment led to the creation of a YouTube channel that garnered widespread attention, accumulating over 6.2 million views to date. The video not only served as a window into Christine’s personal struggle but also became a valuable resource for educational purposes, shown in hospitals, universities, and even featured in the 2017 Norwegian film “Thelma.”
Art as a Lifeline: Exploring New Mediums
In 2018, Christine’s artistic journey took a significant turn when she discovered Pebeo Cerne Relief Outliner. Struggling with financial constraints, she experimented with this medium, realizing its potential to bring her artistic vision to life. Later, equipped with a 12.9” iPad Pro and the ProCreate app, Christine delved into digital art, marking a transformative period in her creative expression.
Photo Credit: Christine Lowe Art
Living with epilepsy and under 24/7 care from her devoted husband, Russell, Christine faced numerous challenges. Yet, her determination and resilience shone through as she navigated the intersection of art and disability, demonstrating that creativity knows no bounds.
A New Chapter: From Ottawa to Cape Breton
In 2023, Christine and Russell sought a change of scenery, exploring opportunities beyond Ottawa. Their journey led them to Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, where they found a tranquil haven to cultivate their dreams. Establishing a 1500 sq ft greenhouse for hydroponic vegetable cultivation and purchasing shares in Femme Flexor, a women’s health product, were just a few steps in their ambitious plan.
Despite the challenges posed by Christine’s epilepsy, the couple embraced a new lifestyle, combining art, agriculture, and entrepreneurship. Their story is a testament to the power of resilience and the pursuit of one’s passions in the face of adversity.
The Artistic Vision Unveiled: Christine Lowe’s Unique Aesthetic
Christine’s artwork, characterized by acrylic paint, Pebeo Cerne Relief Outliner, glitter, and silver leaf, offers a unique visual experience. Her creations, often described as imposing and detached, reflect her perception of the world—cartoonish, shimmering, and weird. The deliberate use of wiggly and blobby lines adds a human touch, making each piece a testament to Christine’s intentional and sculptural approach to painting.
Looking to the Future: Challenges and Aspirations
Christine Lowe’s journey is a reminder that art transcends boundaries and can be a powerful vehicle for social change. As she aspires to showcase her work in galleries worldwide, Christine remains undeterred by the challenges posed by her health. Her long-term goals include using potential wealth to contribute to food production, animal sanctuaries, and art grants for disabled artists, embodying a spirit of generosity and inclusivity.
Photo Credit: Christine Lowe Art
Christine Lowe’s evolution from a prominent cannabis law reform activist to a visionary artist demonstrates the transformative power of creativity and the indomitable human spirit. Her story is a beacon of inspiration for art appreciators worldwide, inviting them to witness the convergence of art, activism, and boundless determination.
Stay connected
Christine’s Corner Facebook page
Visit Christine’s Corner on Facebook
Mommy’s Funny Medicine read-through video
Watch Mommy’s Funny Medicine Read-through
The seizure video
Trigger Disclaimer: Please be advised that the content may include scenes of seizures, which could be triggering for some viewers. Viewer discretion is advised.
