Artist turns incurable cancer journey into art after fighting for diagnosis

In late 2018, Nardiz Cooke discovered a lump in her right breast, but her OB-GYN dismissed it as fibrosis, a benign condition. At 38 and without a family history of cancer, Cooke was reassured. Yet, nearly two years later, troubling symptoms emerged. She experienced severe headaches, sudden vomiting, ringing in her ears, double vision, and temporary blindness. Multiple medical consultations initially returned normal results.

In October 2021, frustrated and determined, Cooke insisted on answers at the emergency room. After extensive testing, an MRI revealed aggressive cancer. She was diagnosed with Stage IV metastatic breast cancer that had spread to her brain.

The diagnosis felt oddly aligned with my experience, Cooke reflected. Facing the reality of her illness, she chose not to dwell on worst-case scenarios, asking herself, What am I going to do with this?

During her treatment, Cooke approached each step with a sense of purpose. She referred to her radiation mask as a trophy, intrigued by the custom-fit device that guided the beams while shielding healthy tissue. Over two years of multiple radiation treatments, the mask became a symbol of endurance and resilience. She envisioned transforming it into art once her treatment concluded.

After completing her final radiation session in late 2022, Cooke adorned her mask with quartz crystals, creating a dazzling display. Inspired, she shared her creation with her radiation oncologist, Dr. Jessica Meshman, who helped arrange for the mask to be exhibited at the cancer center lobby. The artwork quickly became a symbol of strength and inspiration for other patients.

Cookes project expanded as anonymous donations of used radiation masks arrived. Each became a unique canvas, forming a collection she named Radiant Sentinels. She studies the materials and stories behind each mask, respecting the personal journeys of the donors.

Now 44, Cooke is thriving under ongoing hormone therapy. Her daily routine balances medical appointments, creating art, and enjoying small pleasures like a glass of red wine. Her first gallery exhibition in Miami featured twelve masks, including her own and donated pieces. The displays range from mirrored shards and tribal-inspired designs to deer antlers, seashells, fish scales, and religious charms, each reflecting distinct cultural and personal narratives.

I never imagined doing something like this, Cooke admitted. The masks allow viewers to connect in their own way. Its their experience, not mine to dictate.

Cooke continues to collect masks and expand the Radiant Sentinels series, finding renewed purpose through art. Cancer altered the course of my life, she said, but it also led me to create, to inspire, and to build something meaningful beyond myself.

Author: Connor Blake