We are deeply saddened to announce the death of former Editor-in-Chief, Dr Ewan Bowlby, a vibrant, integral and inspirational member of Transpositions and the wider ITIA community. Ewan died on December 23rd, 2022 from brain cancer. He is survived by his wife, Karlee, his parents, Jane and Chris, and siblings, Laura and Alfie.
Ewan had been an active member of the ITIA community since 2017. He was a consistent contributor to Transpositions, working as an Associate Editor before becoming Editor-in-Chief in 2022. Ewan was also a member and leader of Transept, ITIA’s student-led artist group. Drawing on academic research, qualitative study and real-life experience, Ewan’s doctoral research focuses on using popular forms of art (novels, films and television series) to help design innovative emotional, psychological and spiritual care for cancer patients. Ewan was also involved in the practical implementation of his research through such initiatives as Maggie’s Fiction Library, a collection of novels, films, television series and other resources designed to aid individuals affected by cancer to explore their personal experiences through fictional stories about living with cancer.
Image origianlly taken by Stuart Nicol Photography for The Telegraph, 2021
Ewan’s death leaves a large gap in our community. Not only do we mourn the loss of an intelligent thinker and artist, but we mourn the loss of a dear friend. While these words are written with a heaviness of heart, we also want to honour and celebrate the life and work of a gifted scholar and artist. In an effort to do so, we will run a series in the spring, reflecting on and engaging with Ewan’s creative and intellectual work. We hope this upcoming series will display the originality and incisiveness that marks Ewan’s work, as well as the kindness and depth of his character.
His doctoral thesis on the spiritual and emotional care of cancer patients can be read online here: doi.org/10.17630/sta/243.
Donations can be made in Ewan’s memory to Maggie’s (maggies.org) or Tynedale Hospice at Home (tynedalehospice.com).
