My work primarily consists of a balance between pieces portraying mental hardships I’ve faced and pieces displaying nature. I, like many, have struggled with negative thoughts and emotions. I have fallen into the downward spiral of depression and have been trapped in circling thoughts of darkness. My mind has worked overtime, critically analyzing myself and my life until it burns out and all I’m left with is a numbing void. Although many people struggle with stress, anxiety, and depression, it is difficult to discuss these internal frustrations. Through my art, I express relatable hardships and show vulnerability in hopes that the familiar sadness is somehow comforting. Along with these distressing pieces, I include some relief, not just for the viewers, but for myself as well. Nature is my healer, my escape, my reminder that there’s beauty in life and more to life. It may seem counterintuitive, but I find nature to be most soothing during gloomy days when the weather isn’t “perfect”, sunny, and cheery, but rather at ease, peaceful, quiet, and content. Feeling nature’s judgeless embrace temporarily clears my mind of the stresses of reality. Although spending time in nature is not a cure, it is important that I share these moments which have been such an aid in my spiritual journey.