My project, Magpie, is a photographic exploration of the inevitable, and universal experience of inhabiting an unwell body. The project began in 2016 and focuses on my friend Siobhan who had been living with cancer for over 5 years. Siobhan was also a writer and at varying points we have made images and Siobhan made poetry about her experience. I can’t remember the exact diagnosis and don’t pretend to offer these images as documents, rather the images presented are an emotional response to the physical limitations of the human body. And, a personal response to the bravery of a close friend. The work explores the waiting and helplessness that accompanies a chronic illness.
Instagram: @helenzjonez
Image Copyright: Helen Jones, 2016-2019
Image Description: Image of a white hand and arm, covered with white gauze material, against a blue background.
Image Copyright: Helen Jones, 2016-2019
Image Description: Image of a person in a white and blue striped top, with a bald head, holding up a white gauze material in front of them against a blue background. Shadow covers the background and obscures the person’s face.
Image Copyright: Helen Jones, 2016-2019
Image Description: Image of a white hand outstretched, covered with white gauze material, against a blue and shadowed backdrop.
Image Copyright: Helen Jones, 2016-2019
Image Description: Image of a person in a white and blue striped top and blue dungarees, sat on a couch covered in blankets and cushions. The person is in a room with a white door, a dark wall and sat next to a lamp and chair. The person is sat with a white gauze cover over their head, with their hands clasped on their lap.
Capturing Chronic Illness 