Five years ago, Kevin Whitaker was diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia, a debilitating form of Parkinson’s Disease that causes a rapid cognitive and physical decline. A former Ontario Superior Court judge, Kevin stepped down from the bench and took up his paintbrush.

Reverie, an exhibit of his most recent paintings at Back Lane Studios in Roncesvalles Village, is open Saturdays and Sundays, 11am to 2pm until Dec. 5, or by appointment. This will be Kevin’s fifth exhibit at Back Lane Studios since 2018.

Art has provided purpose for Kevin following his diagnosis, and he has turned his energy full-throttle to painting. All proceeds from sales of his art are donated to causes benefitting Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and Lewy Body Dementia. So far, Kevin has raised more than $120,000 for research.

The work of George Orwell and Vincent van Gogh inspire him, Kevin says. His images are arresting -- bold and sometimes violent in their energy. They offer a glimpse into the emotional turmoil and hallucinations, unleashed by his condition, and reflect his outward looking concerns about social injustice and oppression.