How Art Saved My Life

in #art6 years ago

There are many people in the world who love some kind of art. We all have different reasons why we like what we like, but for me, art is what has kept me happy.

l have loved art since I was a little girl, and tried almost every type of art out there. I found what I do and do not like! If you name it, I've probably tried it!!

6233_399107616832183_1780165763_n.jpg Photo taken by me (Rachel Bloom) in New York City from the Empire State Building in 2012.

In 2009, I was diagnosed with severe Anxiety, bulimia, and Depression. I was suicidal. I used to just cry and want to be alone. If I was around people, I would put of a face, and pretend to be okay. I didn't understand why I felt this way. I hated the world. I just wanted the pain to go away..

The only time I found myself at peace was when I was doing something artistic. Whether it was photography, metal work, painting, drawing, etc., It was therapeutic to me!

319347_169707846438829_7110071_n.jpg Painted by me (Rachel Bloom) in 2010.

318567_169707869772160_3031775_n.jpg Welded by me (Rachel Bloom) in 2010.

If I had to pick a favorite type of art, I would pick photography. When I was out with my camera, I felt at peace. It was one of the few things that made me feel happiness and peace.

Without having photography in my life, I don't know how I would have turned out. With photography, I started going out more to take pictures. I started going out with my friends to do photo shoots for fun and even taking pictures of peoples dogs at the park!!!! I was beginning to feel joy again!!

1238267_628593600496995_1177441437_n.jpg Photo taken by me (Rachel Bloom) in 2012.

1384393_628583933831295_340668770_n.jpg Photo taken by me (Rachel Bloom) in 2011.

I started to feel like I had something to live for. Something that made me happy!

I finally didn't have to pretend around people anymore! To this day, I still struggle with my anxiety and depression, but I am no longer suicidal. I have good friends, family, and my art to keep me going! To this day, I still draw, paint, and still love going out to take pictures!!!

21215_470405006369110_1167892786_n.jpg Photo taken by me (Rachel Bloom) in 2011.

And that is how art and photography saved my life! Without it, I don't know what I would have done.

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This is a really moving and honest post. Your work is beautiful - and your portrait photos have so much life and movement in them, I feel like they're just leaping out of the screen at me... (and how much do I want that welded cat?!) It's such an inspiration to hear how your art has helped you overcome and continue to deal with such huge issues in your life. Keep drawing, and painting and photographing... and sharing your journey. So glad to have found your account on here. E x

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