Blue Ribbon Painting

My artistic journey reflects upon personal struggles with mental health and the experiences of living with chronic pain, which has profoundly impacted two significant areas of my life. In my late 20s, I was diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a disorder that causes extreme muscle pain due to a lack of collagen in ligaments and connective tissue, affecting my entire body. Additionally, in 2019, I began to suffer from oral lichen planus, which causes daily mouth pain, consuming my every moment. As a result of both Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) and Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), I have a busy inner world and strong fears that I can get stuck ruminating on. My creativity and art enable me to shift my focus and dive into an altered reality where I function without boundaries despite my condition. Growing up, I struggled to be vulnerable and share my feelings with others. I had experiences that other children typically didn’t, so I felt Isolated. I believe it is my mission to challenge the stigma around mental health and chronic pain through my work to inspire others to open up and dare to be vulnerable about their experiences, creating ripple effects in society and facilitating acknowledgment of their daily suffering. Perhaps my story will encourage others to seek help, educate themselves about these issues, or foster greater empathy and understanding. Cultivating compassion has helped me with healing and personal growth and I strive to empower others to do the same. Amid the turbulence of my journey, art has become my lifeboat. This unwavering sanctuary enables me to navigate the complexities of my existence rather than passively allowing life to happen to me. It is a steadfast anchor, carrying me through the darkest and most arduous days when pain threatens to engulf every fiber of my being. Through my art, I find solace, expression, and a profound means of healing. Within the deliberate strokes of my brush, the interplay of vibrant colors, and the harmonious shapes that emerge, I discover a wellspring of resilience and transformation. Art empowers me to transcend my circumstances, embracing the boundless beauty of creation and embarking on a profound journey of self-discovery. Through creating, I find solace, restoration, and a renewed sense of purpose. When starting a painting, I lay down the first layers of my work.