Being human

Being Human explores empathy, identity, and the unseen struggles of individuals living with mental and physical disabilities. Drawing inspiration from shared diary entries, each of the f ive large-scale colored pencil and water-based media drawings capture an intimate moment that reflects the subject’s personal journey and emotional state. Influenced by artists such as Rebecca Sugar, Alphonse Mucha, and Victoria Olt, my creative process merges symbolism, composition, and mark-making to communicate themes of resilience, vulnerability, and connection. Mucha’s framing devices and floral motifs inspired my visual language, while Sugar and Olt’s emotional storytelling encouraged me to approach each subject with honesty and compassion. Through these captured moments, I aim to challenge societal stigmas and invite viewers to look beyond appearances, fostering a deeper understanding of others lived experiences. Being Human seeks to remind audiences of the shared humanity that connects us all and to inspire moments of empathy, reflection, and genuine human connection.