Artist Statement

Living with epilepsy has significantly impacted my life, experiences, and sense of identity. It has made me realize how many unfair stereotypes and treatment people like me must face. Epilepsy has impacted my art because it helped spark my ambition to use my creativity as a way of spreading awareness so that others living with seizures do not feel like they need to hide. That is the message my art conveys. The piece is meant to represent the “invisible” side of epilepsy, the side people don’t see. It’s more than just seizures, and in a room of 26 people, you would have no clue one person has epilepsy unless they were to tell you themselves. I hope that one day, people will understand that hidden disabilities exist, and just because someone appears “normal” on the outside doesn’t mean they aren’t struggling with their own health.

Having such a misunderstood and stigmatized condition has absolutely made things difficult, but I always try to remind myself that yes, I have epilepsy, but epilepsy does not have me. 

My background as an artist goes back to when I was very young. My interest in art has influenced my life by inspiring me to pursue a major in graphic design as I enter college. I’ve created short animated films for my school and designed logos for various projects, including a middle school soccer team and a graduation T-shirt. I also occasionally post my art and animations online. I still pursue art, hoping to grow my skills and talent as I continue practicing. 

 I remain artistically motivated and inspired through my desire to tell authentic stories, spread awareness, advocate for representation, and to prove that people like me can accomplish great things, even when some people insist otherwise.

Art