Q: Your work explores themes of depression and anxiety. How has creating art helped you navigate and express these emotions?

A: My artwork is my way of trying to express these emotions in a productive way. I don't know how much it helps since I still wish I hadn't woken up most days but it does give me an outlet to get my stress out. And it's better than rotting away in bed.

Q: Your use of bold colours and dynamic compositions stands out. How do you decide on the visual language for each piece, especially when expressing complex emotions?

A: If I am being honest there is not much planning that goes into each piece. I just try and fill up the whole space in an interesting way. Most of my work is very similar as far as subject matter. Its usually features some character with an expressive face in some sad situation. Sometimes I have an idea what that situation will be and sometimes it comes as I'm sketching. As far as color, I use mostly prismacolor markers which are kinda pricey so I end up just using what colors still have ink in them. In my latest pieces, I have been adding a yellow background with watercolors but I don't really know the reason behind it. I think I just like yellow.

Q: Many people might see their own struggles reflected in your work. What has the response been like from viewers who relate to your themes of mental health?

A: "Felt." - a comment from a stranger on instagram. I only have a small following on instagram which is where I get the most feedback. But it does seem like a lot of folks can find a unique familiarity with the themes in my work. I think we live in a time where more and more people are struggling with things like depression, anxiety and sucidal ideations. I think my work makes people feel like maybe they aren't so alone. Everyone's struggles are different but I think there's a relatable angst or melancholy in my work that people can recognize and understand.

Q: Can you walk us through your process—from idea to finished piece? How do you balance intention with spontaneous creativity?

A: Sometimes I have an idea beforehand and sometimes not. A lot of my work is similar in composition and I have repeating imagery like the butterflies, daisies, and the hanging guy. I typically just start by sketching out a face and go from there. The face is usually the center piece and the most detailed part of the drawing. I try to make the face as expressive as I can and it is usually a reflection of how I'm feeling at the time. This is the part that I draw with the most intention and inking the face usually stresses me out a little. I typically surround the character with more crude drawings with less detail. After I get the sketch down I add color with marker and then I ink the whole piece. Then I'll add some other media like water color or oil/acrylic paints and gel pens for highlights. This is the more spontaneous part and the part that I enjoy the most.

Q: Talking about trauma-informed art - Do you find that working through difficult emotions in your art changes the way you feel about those experiences afterward?

A: To be honest, I'm not sure if it really changes how I feel for better or worse. But It does make me feel like I have some sense of purpose or worth when I create something. Especially when someone else appreciates it. It makes me feel like at least something good can come from my misery. I feel seen and less alone.

Q: For other artists who may also be dealing with mental health challenges, what advice would you give about using art as a means of expression and healing?

A: I think art can be useful to distract yourself from your thoughts and it can even be therapeutic. It's an excellent way to express yourself. But I think it's important to use other means of healing as well. Art by itself, I don't think is enough to improve your mental health completely.