Mindful

When I pick up my paintbrush, or find an interesting combination of materials for a sculptural piece, I think about not only the visual of the finished work, but also the message I want to convey. I want to remind people to be mindful, to know that it's ok to not be ok, and re-consider how they might judge someone before knowing that person's internal struggles. I want to bring awareness to and challenge society’s perception of mental health and destigmatize mental illness. I love the idea that my work can evoke emotion within the viewer.

 

 The COVID-19 pandemic has affected everyone's lives and mental health in contrasting complexity. But for those with existing mental health challenges, their struggles can be compounded by the pandemic. We unknowingly navigate our daily lives oblivious to the invisible internal struggles of each individual we meet.