Introspection

Artist Statement  

Introspection is a fine art photographic body of work that tells the story of my personal journey with mental health. The photographs that I have created include self-portraits and a poem, and use visual metaphors and symbolism to express what often goes unspoken. It is autobiographical, but also meant to reflect a shared experience, one that resonates with others who face similar internal battles, so they too can feel seen and heard. 

I have struggled with mental health issues for as long as I can remember. For years, I underestimated how deeply they affected my daily life until I began to look inward. Through that process, I discovered the unpredictable range of emotions my body and mind can cycle through in a single day. My mental health disorders can arrive quietly and individually or collide with me all at once. 

Each image represents the silent struggles that I and so many others navigate daily. In creating this series, I have delved deeply into the emotions that affect my mind, body, and soul. This process has been both therapeutic and revealing, opening a space not only for self-exploration but for connection with viewers who may find themselves within the images.  

Introspection

She Smiles 

Even through the darkest parts of life  

Making sure no one sees 

The devil running through her veins 

The hurt carved into her flesh 

Her eyes sparkling bright 

Thoughts unraveling into chaos 

Memories left unspoken 

Leaving her alone 

Broken 

Worn down to nothing 

Fighting to pick up the pieces 

To put herself together 

At an all-time low 

Screaming her lungs out  

Like shattered glass beneath her skin 

The pain is unbearable  

And still 

Despite everything 

She smiles