Painting Inspired by Brain Activity During Sleep
Antoinette Ferwerda, a Melbourne artist and gallery director, has contributed a painting to The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, which aims to support vital brain research. The artwork will be auctioned to raise funds for the institute's ongoing studies.
Her painting, titled 'Dreamscape,' draws inspiration from the human brain's activity during sleep. It stands over two metres tall and will be sold through a silent auction to aid the institute's research efforts.
Focusing on improving lives, The Florey Institute supports individuals like Evania Klintberg, Ferwerda's art assistant and a young stroke survivor. Klintberg has benefitted from the institute's Young Stroke Service since her stroke four years ago, at age 18.
With a background in science, Ferwerda has long been fascinated by the brain's complexity. She remarked, "The brain is complex and incredible, and there is so much we do not understand about its functioning."
Supporting Young Stroke Survivors
The Florey's support has been invaluable to Klintberg, who is currently a fine arts student at RMIT. She expressed her enthusiasm about 'Dreamscape' aiding the institute's research. "The Florey has been there to help me through with therapies, so it’s nice to give back because they’ve done so much for me," Klintberg said.
Ferwerda's transition from science to art has expanded her understanding of both fields. Her connection to science remains strong, drawing parallels between natural patterns and scientific observations.
Professor Peter van Wijngaarden, The Florey’s Executive Director, expressed gratitude for Ferwerda’s donation. He stated, “We are deeply grateful to Antoinette for this remarkable gift and for the opportunity it creates to directly support life-changing research.”
The silent auction featuring 'Dreamscape' aims to raise significant funds for The Florey's research endeavours. This will contribute to advancements in understanding and treating various brain conditions.
Brighton East contemporary artist Ferwerda sometimes paints with her less dominant left hand to challenge her coordination and boost brain health. Her unique approach to art underscores her ongoing commitment to understanding the brain's potential.
Last updated: 19 May 2026, 11:10 am
