The Poorly Project, alternatively known as POORLY is an editorial and curatorial initiative dedicated to the stories and practices of creative practitioners contributing to the topics of sickness, health and well-being.
The purpose of the project comes from understanding that sickness remains on the societal side-lines, and conversations around our health and well-being have become part-time.
Only when an individual has direct experience with these subjects do we begin to value the exchange of information, experience and wisdom.
The Poorly Project is for those “sick enough to tell the tale”. But what does this mean?
Deviating away from the idea of being “well enough to tell the tale”, The Poorly Project takes the standpoint that stories originate and are composed in lessened health or sickness.
It acknowledges how influences to our health and well-being can compel us to share and take creative action.
studio visits, interviews, exhibitions and more
Behind the Project
Cengizhan Sen is the Founder and Creative Director of The Poorly Project.
Cengizhan’s tale began initially as an artist. Pursuing a commercial career within the creative non-profit sector, he played a pivotal role at the late Alexander McQueen’s Sarabande Foundation, supporting emerging creative talent and working with innovative brands such as AUROBOROS and a diverse range of creative practitioners.
A diagnosis of Hodgkin’s Lymphoma profoundly shaped Cengizhan’s creative journey, sparking a writing practice that explores themes of illness, identity, trauma, and healing.
Unifying his passion for creativity with health narratives, and the desire to dispel misinformation and nescience, he established the project in early 2025.
