For local artist, Malgorzata Krzysztofik (Gosia), art is a way of expressing herself with “complete honesty” after loosing her sight.
“It is play, experimentation, freedom — a space where I can explore and also connect with others. Art has played a profound role in my healing and in maintaining my wellbeing.”
Gosia’s journey with EYECAN began in 2018. A year earlier, she had been diagnosed with a brain tumour which created pressure on her optic nerve, causing irreversible damage, and leaving her mainly reliant on her left eye, where her central vison is preserved.
After that first contact with EYECAN, she said everything moved quickly. “A rehabilitation specialist visited me, assessed my needs. I received truly life changing practical support from EYECAN — from adapting my home to my needs, to giving me access to equipment such as magnifying lenses, proper lighting, and protective glasses.
“But what has meant the most to me are the people I’ve met here: the wonderful staff, volunteers, and members of the organisation. I feel surrounded by kindness and a level of support that is beyond anything I could have imagined. I am deeply, sincerely grateful for everything I have received — and continue to receive.” She said.
After some time, a space became available for Gosia to take part in EYECAN’s weekly art sessions.
“It was here, at EYECAN, that I first began to express myself through art, taking part in the weekly creative sessions. Under the guidance of a teacher, I was able to explore mosaic work and painting. These experiences opened doors for me: they encouraged me to pursue further art courses and led to my very first opportunities to share my artwork in gallery exhibitions.”
In 2022, Gosia got involved with ArtHouse Jersey while looking to find out more about the artistic community in Jersey, and to volunteer for ArtHouse.
“I hold a quiet hope that by sharing my artwork with others, I might bring something positive into their lives as well.” She said. “I feel honoured to have taken part in the exhibition organised by ArtHouse, to have met other artists and learned their stories, and to have been able to share my own work with others.”
Katherine Wood, the Gallery and Events Manager for ArtHouse Jersey, said: “Her passion for painting, creativity and its impact on wellbeing is infectious. Seeing her confidence in both herself and the artwork she creates grow since then, has been wonderful, and to be able to play a small part in that journey is what makes my job such a privilege.
“I was so pleased when she applied to be part of the Channel Island Contemporary Art Show for 2026, which saw over 60 applications from artists across the world. The final exhibition features the work of 17 artists from Jersey, Guernsey, France and the UK and Gosia’s paintings sit strongly in the show and are a joyful inclusion.
“I look forward to seeing how her artistic practice develops and I have no doubt that her work will inspire EYECAN’s members as well as the wider public.”
Gosia also joined EYECAN’s “wonderful team” of volunteers, helping to support other islanders living with sight loss through our Thursday Social Club sessions.
”Losing my sight has been a difficult experience that requires learning how to live again and accepting this new reality. Professional support and the understanding of people who have gone through similar experiences are absolutely essential.” She said.
“I am deeply convinced that within every experience — even the most difficult one — there is something good hidden, a kind of jewel. It can be hard to see it when we are in the “eye of the storm,” overwhelmed by our emotions. But often, once the storm has passed, we discover that despite the losses, there are also gains. Sometimes we have to make an effort to notice them and to use them in a positive way. It is important not to isolate ourselves but to seek connection and support wherever it is available to us.”
Gosia also wanted to thank Jersey Brain Tumour Charity, who provided her with support alongside EYECAN.