(bio + statement)

Me: I’m a 27-year-old (b./Aug 1997) self-taught visual artist born and raised on unceded Anishanaabek territory (Ottawa, Canada). I’ve been here my whole life. Nothing was completed past high school. A few small shows in Ottawa, including a Solo at Possible Worlds (2018).

Statement: Creating is an instinctual reaction to my life and an extension of my soul. It now feels like no other choice exists, as though it’s as necessary and natural as breathing. I’ve never spent much time trying to attach meaning to my works, and in the end, I don’t feel it’s super necessary. They speak to each of us in different ways.

story:

Struggle:
I’ve struggled with mental illness and addiction for most of my life, the majority of that time anxious and uncertain, doing a lot of things that weren’t art. I spent years shifting through school, rehabilitation programs, and various jobs - baker, busser, janitor, housekeeper, assistant manager - just trying to build some kind of stability in my day-to-day and figure out how to keep going.

Weight:
Eventually, the emotional and psychological weight of those years became overwhelming. Feelings of shame, regret, paranoia, and disconnection made it difficult to see a way forward. At that stage, the idea of returning to creative work felt impossible, and I came to a sickly peace with fading into oblivion.

Loss, Recovery, Growth:
After the loss of my father to terminal illness, followed by two significant personal heartbreaks, I reached a breaking point. I knew I couldn’t continue living in a constant state of grief and emotional pain, and sought guidance and support from a higher power. I got an answer and found the strength to stop drinking - ending four years of daily (a.m. to p.m.) use - then instinctively returned to art with an intensity to create that I had never felt before. Everything else good in my life followed suit, and all I had to do was to do it… 

Light:
My Faith, family, and renewed artistic practice are guiding me forward each day. I’m beyond grateful for my loved ones, and can confidently say that I  wouldn’t still be here without their presence and love. Although healing isn’t linear, some days are harder than others, and the journey is undoubtedly life-long (and then some), my purpose is clear now. I can say that I’m happy, and above all, I’m grateful and excited for whatever comes next in my story!