Artist with ALS bridges creativity and physical barriers

In Buenos Aires, Argentina, Víctor Manuel Gancedo, a 52-year-old artist, continues to paint despite being diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) four years ago.

Gancedo has adapted his technique, transforming paintbrushes into extensions of his hand to overcome the physical limitations imposed by the neurodegenerative disease. He began drawing as a child, initially replicating national heroes but quickly expanding to more imaginative subjects like hieroglyphs and Mayan culture.

After receiving his diagnosis, Gancedo focused on applying the precision he’d developed through drawing to navigate his new reality. He actively seeks ways to maintain his quality of life and continues to paint a few brushstrokes each day, viewing each one as an accomplishment. His apartment has been modified with specialized equipment to aid him, and he and his wife, Luciana, have started a small business selling prints of his work to help cover medical expenses.

Gancedo acknowledges the emotional toll of his illness, noting the loss of some friends and family members who have distanced themselves. However, he remains grateful for the support he receives from his wife, a multidisciplinary medical team, and a network of other ALS patients he connected with online, including former minister Esteban Bullrich. He also shares his experience by teaching art to adolescents with autism through the María Kodama Foundation, finding that his adaptive equipment sparked their imaginations.

Despite the increasing physical challenges, Gancedo remains committed to his art, finding solace and purpose in the creative process.