About the Cover Artist: What Meteor Velocotorix by Ann Harwell

Ann Harwell was diagnosed with Parkinson disease (PD) in 2013. The neurologist who diagnosed Ann did not provide any details regarding this condition and what Ann should expect. As Ann described it, the neurologist told Ann she had PD, handed her a prescription and ended the clinical visit by stating “Take this and come back to see me in 3 months.” On her way home, Ann cried and began researching PD. She also started working with a different neurologist.

Ann’s PD presented as tremors in her left arm and leg. These symptoms worsened, and medical management alone did not reduce her symptoms. As such, Ann had deep brain stimulation, which has decreased her need for medication and alleviated her symptoms.

Although PD has impacted Ann’s ability do the precision work her artwork entails, she remains undeterred and now has a greater sense of urgency to spend time in her studio creating art. She still feels there is so much more she needs to create.

Ann uses her artwork to communicate ideas, express feelings, and tell stories. She unites and enhances diverse fabric designs and colors with intricate, precision piecing and exorbitant quilting. Through this work, she “weave[s] a subtle sermon on the things that delight and confound [her].”  Ann begins her work with an original rough drawing. She then drafts a straight-line design which she transfers to pattern material. She then carefully selects each piece of cotton fabric (hand-dyed, batik, commercial cottons) which she cuts and sews together to make the final piece. 

Ann’s artwork can be viewed on her website, http://www.annharwell.com

Practical Neurology September/October 2025 Cover: