I use my photographs to explore my internal self. As my mind becomes fogged and I am left with no words to speak, I turn to imagery. I find myself in a space that feels constricting, and in a world that is full of uncertainty, I am left with nothing but the thoughts in my own head.
As a way of coping, I use my images as a visual journal to document the highs and lows that come with depression. By using my own experiences with depression as the base of my work, I contribute to the conversation around mental health and hope to provide a safe place for others experiencing similar situations. An estimated 350 million people suffer from depression and due to the current Pandemic, depression rates have tripled in U.S. adults in all demographic groups, and suicide rates are continuing to rise.
My images investigate a range of internal states, from isolated, alone, and hopeless to content and free. Some images are subtle and quiet, disguised as daily rituals. These moments look normal, however, there is more than what the eye can see. As no journey is linear, scattered throughout this series are also images that reflect feelings of freedom. Light is used as a symbol of hope in the work and foreshadows better days. Originating from my daily journal practices, my images capture and record moments that give me reasons to live.
