Sinister creativity: a phenomenological exploration of some of the experiences and perceptions of six lefthanded visual artists

Six lefthanded artist-educators were interviewed to attempt to discover any patterns t6 their perceptions and experiences. Artists have their own culture and priorities. According to the literature, lefthanded people appear more likely to suffer from dyslexia, allergies, asthma and other auto-immune diseases as well as machinery and equipment injuries. Patterns emerging suggested that lefthanded people indeed suffer more from dyslexia. More startling was the distinct possibility that many artists have traumatic childhood histories. This would commonly include negative school experiences, and for a significant number sexual assault, perceived or actual abandonment by parents, and/or consistently low selfesteem. The researcher discovered possible reasons why creative people frequently have problems at school, why they tend to be rebellious and anti-establishment oriented, how many of them perceive societal rules, and why they are more likely to be lefthanded. These characteristics all have significant implications for art school administrators.

County of Welland estimate (copy) of work done on the main drain, and cleaning of fallen timber by Andrew Mains, signed by S.D. Woodruff

County of Welland estimate (copy) of work done on the main drain, and cleaning of fallen timber by Andrew Mains, signed by S.D. Woodruff. Estimate no.1, Oct., 1856.

County of Welland estimate of work done on section no.1 and cleaning below the culvert of the tap drain at Marshville by Edward Henderson

County of Welland estimate of work done on section no.1 and cleaning below the culvert of the tap drain at Marshville by Edward Henderson, signed by S.D. Woodruff. Estimate no.2, Oct., 1856.

Receipt from Chatfield and Neelon, St. Catharines for cleaning out boilers

Receipt from Chatfield and Neelon, St. Catharines for cleaning out boilers, Oct. 1, 1887.