A Personal, Pink Triptych
In 2023, I created three meaningful A2 illustrations, finished with matching pink frames. The motivation behind these works was a competition and exhibition centered around growth; I chose to explore my journey with health, self-acceptance, and ways in which I have grown as a person. I used acrylic, soft pastel, gold leaf, and ink on cartridge paper, choosing a colour scheme that related to feminine power and my own identity as a redheaded woman.
“Growth Begins When You Step Outside Your Comfort Zone”
This piece reflects my struggle with agoraphobia and panic attacks, which led me to isolate myself for years. Over the past year, I've made a conscious effort to push myself beyond my comfort zone, to make the world seem less scary, and to expand my horizons. I use fish imagery in this piece because, just like fish grow larger when moved to a bigger pool, I believe we grow when we step into new, uncomfortable territories. There's also a nod to evolution: at some point, fish had to move onto land to evolve and grow legs. This symbolises my journey and the idea that real growth begins when I dare to step outside my comfort zone.
“Embrace Yourself & Bloom”
In this piece, I focus on the power of self-acceptance and self-love. I depict a lady hugging herself—a both literal and figurative embrace that symbolises self-acceptance. Around her, gorgeous peonies bloom, representing the beauty and strength that come from truly embracing who we are. This piece is a personal rebellion against societal pressures to conform to specific standards of appearance, behaviour, or success. By accepting myself as I am, I believe I can become the best version of myself—confident, powerful, and unassailable. When I find happiness and strength in my own company, I become unstoppable.
“You Grow Through What You Go Through”
In this piece, I depict myself as a 'broken' girl, with cracks and holes all over my body. These cracks represent the struggles I've faced with M.E., fibromyalgia, and mental health challenges. Despite these visible signs of pain and adversity, flowers bloom in these gaps. These blossoms carry a message for me and for anyone who relates to my journey: "Don't forget about me. Don't let me waste away. Let's grow into something beautiful." These flowers symbolise hope and transformation, reminding me that even in my brokenness, there's potential for growth and beauty.
These illustrations are available in my shop as A3 art prints; printed on recycled paper and embellished by hand with gold ink.