The problem:
The owner of Farr Guitar Studio, Jake Farr, asked me to participate in a multimedia art show at Soma Vida in downtown Austin. I had two walls of dedicated space, which ended up being 10 art works. I wanted to communicate a topic that was relevant to me. During my time as an educator, mental health care was a matter that needed to be addressed at the student, parent, and teacher level.
Research:
I wanted to create a watercolor series that portrayed other people’s struggle with mental health. I met with friends and family from different backgrounds to discuss their experiences. However, I thought it would be best to also display their growth. I experimented with growing an assortment of plants, dissecting and posing vegetables, and searching the city for vegetation to collect an array of reference photos.
Brainstorm:
Using my collection of references, I drew thumbnail sketches before moving to the final drafts. I attributed human characteristics or experiences to each plant. After experimenting with different arrangements, I found a direction that would best communicate my topic.
Iterate:
Crossing over these qualities to plants, I was able to compare them to the physical toll mental health has on people. I thought this message was especially important as the two aren’t inseparable from each other. I made small 5x7 prints to sell at the art show, as well. I received feedback from attendees who felt a strong connection to the art works.