Lost in the Hidden Truths

Hidden Truths, The Mind Unraveled, is an annual event from the Hidden Truths Project in collaboration with the Epilepsy Foundation. This art exhibition and fundraiser supports translational research in epilepsy and celebrates art as therapy for those living with epilepsy. The event also raises awareness of epilepsy and seizures. 

This year was the fourth Hidden Truths event, which took place October 2 and 3 at the stylish Gray Matter Museum of Art gallery in Costa Mesa, California. Patrons, artists, and their families came to celebrate art, raise funds to support the mission of the Epilepsy Foundation, and honor Hollywood legend Jim Abrahams for his work with epilepsy and the ketogenic diet. Nearly 200 guests attended the two-day gala and art show comprised of film, paintings, sculptures, poetry, and origami from 72 artists spanning 10 countries around the world.

Jim Abrahams is known, publicly, for his work on comedic spoof movies like Airplane! and Scary Movie 4. But, in the world of epilepsy, he is known for creating the Charlie Foundation for Ketogenic Therapies. Abrahams’ son Charlie lives with epilepsy and became seizure-free using the ketogenic diet. With the help of Abrahams and the Charlie Foundation, many others have found seizure freedom through this special high-fat, low-carbohydrate diet that helps to control seizures in some people with epilepsy. 

As a final thought, I ask you to think about art and how it has changed the lives of many people. Has art changed you? Now think about art in terms of therapy and a way to get the public to understand more about epilepsy and the impact seizures can have, not only on the person living with epilepsy, but also on anyone who cares for them. With that thought, I leave you to ponder one last painting from this year’s Hidden Truths, The Mind Unraveled. 

Painting Entitled “lost in it all” by Jessy Ross

“I will say I’ve been lucky that my seizures have not directly impacted my artistic processes other than to give me fuel to create more. I think in taking a chance and showing myself at my most vulnerable, it speaks to many. As always [I] put my feelings in color,” said Ross.