Artist: EMILY

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The focus of my concentration is to reveal the symptoms of mental illnesses in the minds of sufferers. These symptoms that would otherwise be hidden from the outside of the world. My intention is to expose the irrational and imaginary fears and bring them to life. These complex thoughts and emotions cannot be easily expressed with words; my drawings are a more thorough form of communication. 

"PTSD: Reliving the Past"- This piece illustrates how vivid flashbacks can be anxiety-provoking and debilitating. The decaying flowers on the wall represent the trauma and hurt while living with post-traumatic stress disorder. However, the flowers eventually bloom representing healing that can take place after a traumatic time.

"Schizophrenia: Hearing Voices"- This artwork reveals the distorted thoughts and perceptions that one may experience. Hearing voices is a common symptom of schizophrenia and may not be easy to cope with. The man in the drawing is showing a distressed expression as if he is going insane.

"OCD"-  Obsessive Compulsive disorder is different for everyone who suffers from it; in this piece color coordination and organization are stressors. Common office supplies are drawn in this work to convey that OCD effects everyday activities. Focusing on everyday tasks are difficult because obsessions and compulsions take control of the mind and body.

"Drowning in Depression"- This piece depicts the weight of hopelessness, sadness, and fatigue dragging a woman down. Her outward appearance may seem completely normal, but inwardly she may feel as if she is drowning in a sea of depression.