Always Hidden Always Present

Mental illness has always been present in the world but only recently have people began to discuss it more openly. I have personally struggled with depression for many years and after my sibling attempted suicide a few months ago, I knew I had to work through these emotions using my art. For this series, I wanted to create an intersection between art and technology with a focus on mental health. Using tintypes, I captured individuals who have dealt with depression and included intimate recordings of each subject’s personal struggle with this mental disability. Through this series, I wanted to create a sense of community, depression can become isolating for many people therefore creating a safe space for individuals to speak creates an open conversation about this important issue. I have incorporated these portraits using augmented reality because that is how mental illness can be seen: not seen but always present.

In collaboration with Penumbra Foundation.

Note: Some of the language contained in this exhibition is not suitable for children