Inspiration
The human experience and belief that true power and creativity emerge from embracing our differences. As an autistic painter, I'm inspired by the beauty of neurodivergence, viewing it as a transformative force that shapes my work. Our unique strengths and quirks unite us against life's challenges, driving me to create pieces that celebrate individuality and authenticity. I encourage you to colour outside the lines, do the dance that has never been seen before, and be unapologetically yourself. Like the Leaning Tower of Pisa, our imperfections are what make us captivating and real. In a world that often tries to fit us into "normality", my art is a tribute to celebrating the beautiful diversity of being human.
The Origin Story of why I started to paint
My love for art began at 14 with an unexpected passion: Anime. I was captivated by its expressive style and dreamt of becoming a manga artist. I began drawing anime characters and sharing them on Instagram, which opened up a world of inspiration. Artists like Tomasz Mro, Tahilia Stanton, and Alpay Efe deeply influenced me, encouraging me to explore oil paint, watercolor, and any other medium I could get my hands on.
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During this time, school was a struggle. Depression held me back (which I now know to be autistic burn out), and my grades reflected it—I was barely passing with C’s. But a single question changed everything: “Is it possible to make a living from art?” That question lit a fire in me. I poured everything into my art, staying late every day to improve, and eventually turned my failing grade into a respectable B. With a new sense of purpose, I chose to pursue A-Levels at Ipswich's Suffolk One 6th Form College in Fine Art, Music, and Business, determined to build a future around my passion.
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When I graduated, I was overjoyed to receive A* in Fine Art, A* in Music, and a B in Business Studies. I was at a crossroads: should I go to university or take a foundation course? I tried the college's art foundation course for a week, but it wasn’t for me. By then it was too late to apply for University that year.
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Feeling lost, I took a job at a pancake shop to save money. That job led to a pivotal moment—I earned enough to rent my first art studio, a small, abandoned office tucked away in Stowmarket. My partner and I renovated the space together, and I began creating TikTok videos there. One series, “Things Art Teachers Don’t Tell You,” became a massive hit, gaining a million views in just a few days. My follower count soared to 15,000 and continued to grow as I shared more of my journey.
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But the studio had its flaws. Cracks began to form in the ceiling, and despite our best efforts to secure the roof, water leaked in, causing significant damage. Eventually, a large section of the ceiling collapsed, landing right where I usually sat to paint. It was a close call, and I realised I needed to move on.
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At 20, my partner and I moved into a flat, where I set up a new studio space. This transition marked the next chapter in my artistic journey, one where I’m continually inspired by the power of community and the beauty of our differences.
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This journey has taught me that art isn’t just about what you create; it’s about resilience, growth, and embracing every twist and turn along the way. Through all the challenges and triumphs, I’ve learned to find inspiration in the unexpected, and I’m excited to continue sharing my story with the world.