Seeking Whispers
Seeking Whispers
This artwork draws inspiration from the concept of ‘gene therapy to cure deafness in babies’, prompting the artist to delve into the broader theme of healing hearing loss.
Through symbols, such as a shell representing the cochlea, the artwork portrays the silent struggle of deafness. The cochlea is enveloped in silence, depicted visually by surrounding darkness.
Water and reflections around the shell symbolise the journey of sounds attempting to connect with the cochlea – the sparkling magic of gene therapy aiding the transduction of sound to electricity.
This piece was created amidst the woods near Addenbrooke’s Hospital, where pioneering trials of this therapy took place.
Without digital manipulation, every texture, reflection, and form was captured in unison with the sounds of the surroundings.
It serves as a visual representation of the beauty and complexity of sound, as it strives to reach the unmoved ear, encompassing a narrative of hope and healing.
Artist – Lina Jusevičiūtė
Lina Jusevičiūtė is a Lithuanian photography artist. Photography is her way of engaging in magical conversations and helping others connect with their vulnerability and authenticity.
In her art, she explores the importance of reconnecting with the world and nature through our bodies and senses, allowing our minds to rest
Scientist – Dr Richard Brown
Paediatric Neurology and Epilepsy Consultant, Cambridge University Hospital Foundation Trust
We are using gene therapy to cure deafness in babies. The trial aims to show whether gene therapy can provide hearing for children born with hearing loss due to auditory neuropathy, a condition caused by the disruption of nerve impulses travelling from the inner ear to the brain.