Lilah's Blog

         My experience with art outside of the classroom consists of work with mixed media, collage, embroidery and sewing. I typically take inspiration from fashion I see in the media, movies I watch and architecture I stumble upon, whether it be in my hometown of Chicago, on campus, or while traveling. So why do I create art? As someone with mental health struggles, I often find myself creating art when I’m at my lowest of lows. In other words, I am more motivated by my own emotional needs than by the needs of my viewer(s). In most areas of my life, I am taught to perceive my emotions as a mere distraction. Throughout the artistic process, however, I can let my emotions be the driving influence of my work, whether it be through the tone, style, or medium of my art. The artistic process brings me to a state of peace and serenity, when my mental health feels like not only the priority, but an inspiration.