This piece was created in 2018. During this time, I experienced my first wake up call about my mental health. Discouraging thoughts, lowered self-esteem, and sudden career changes affected my lifestyle, thought process and motivation to live. What kept me going most of my days were just to live for others and try to satisfy their needs. My arm reaching out of the water while my body is submerged is a cry for help (because I can’t swim in reality). Mental health became an important factor to me because I always thought I had to tough it out and show no emotion. I didn’t want to be labeled weak, incapable, or scared of whatever life threw at me. Now, I ask God just to allow me to breathe more and take up space.

Black Wood Frame Canvas

The tools I used to create:

Canon 5D Mark II

Standard 18-55mm lens

Tripod