On today’s Raw Nerve, we present part two of an interview with Stephen Crawford, a Canberra-based artist and musician who lives with multiple sclerosis (MS).

In part one, Stephen shared with us his uniquely individual story – starting with his childhood in Scotland and moving to Australia in the 1980s – and many fascinating anecdotes, with his signature dark humour, resilience, and positivity.

Stephen creates artwork to help people understand what it’s like to live with MS. In this second part, Stephen discusses the intersection of MS and his art, and his plans for how he hopes to continue to educate and inform others. He introduces us to his art practice and methodologies, and where it all began, his painting journey, and what his artworks represent. He shares many references to popular culture and their link to MS, and colourful analogies to help describe what is going on inside his body. Stephen also talks about MS symptoms, his love of storytelling, the importance of fundraising for MS research, and advice for others newly-diagnosed with MS.

No two people experience MS in the same way, and so too everyone finds strength in their own way, as Stephen’s story attests.

If you listen carefully, you will hear that Stephen is drawing throughout the conversation. Below, we have included a link to some of his artworks.

This episode includes mentions of injuries, medical procedures, and some dark themes, in the context of the interviewee’s unique life journey.

For helpful MS contacts in your local area, visit our Support and Services page and check out MS Australia’s new Lifestyle Guide for people living with MS.

Stephen Crawford’s Art