Art in Recovery and The Meaning of 'Drash'

Dave Beck
07/24/2008

In 2003, Lisa Anderson suffered two strokes that stripped her ability to read and draw. We'll hear how she defied doctors and found a new appreciation for her art in recovery. We also learn how a local author embraces "Drash," an approach to stories both new and ancient.

At 2:05 p.m. – Lisa Anderson

When blood vessels in your brain stop delivering oxygen, your brain begins to die. That's called a stroke. And it's among the leading causes of death in America. A stroke survivor can face a long journey. In some cases, she needs to re–learn basic skills like reading and talking. Seattle artist Lisa Anderson used drawing and reading aloud to define herself as a kid. She suffered two strokes in 2003 that stripped away her hard–won ability to read and draw.

At 2:20 p.m. – (Wo)Men Speak Out!

(Wo)Men Speak Out is a Seattle–based organization dedicated to eradicating rape, sexual assault and gender violence. Co–founders Christopher and Ophelia de Serres educate both men and women, cultivating healthy relationships and gender equity. In an archive interview from April 29, 2008, Megan Sukys speaks with Christopher and Ophelia about how their shared trauma led them to reach out to others.

At 2:40 p.m. – Misha Berson Theatre Reviews

Seattle Times Theatre Critic Misha Berson talks about Shakespeare outdoors, including upcoming productions of "Hamlet" by Greenstage and "Romeo and Juliet" by Wooden O Theatre. Also a look ahead at "Shrek," the next big Broadway premiere, at the 5th Avenue Theatre.

At 2:50 p.m. – Wendy Marcus: The Meaning of Drash

The Hebrew word "Drash" can mean many things. For a young girl, it may be a princess in a castle. For the girl's mother, Drash could mean a family's escape from Nazi Germany. Loosely translated, Drash means "a telling" or "a word." Author Wendy Marcus is the creator of a literary journal called Drash: Northwest Mosaic. It carries on a storytelling tradition that goes back to Wendy's childhood.