Anxiety

 

12" x 16" acrylic paint on acrylic painting paper

12" x 16" acrylic paint on acrylic painting paper

12" x 16" acrylic paint on acrylic painting paper

12" x 16" acrylic paint on acrylic painting paper

These are a series of paintings I created in 2014 when I was suffering from a high level of anxiety. I had never experienced anxiety or frequent panic attacks before so being faced with something I didn't understand was terrifying to me. As time went on and I did some research, I realized that the only way to get out of my own head was to do something I enjoyed. Of course, the desire to do anything at first is very low because the symptoms are just so strong...one feels powerless against them. I was reassured though to keep going, to engage in activities in order to break the loop of anxiety. 

I'm not surprised here at the colours I chose. I think of the bottom of the ocean when I look at the first two or deep space where there is no sound, no noise. They appear dream-like now...tranquil, peaceful. 

I do recall experimenting with texture in the fourth image. I enjoyed slathering on the paint...the thicker I laid it on, the better.