Art has always been a refuge for me—a world where the limitations of my body are replaced by the limitless possibilities of creativity. Living with Osteogenesis Imperfecta (also known as Brittle Bone Disease), I often found myself unable to participate in activities many kids my age enjoyed. Sports like soccer or football were simply off the table, and the boredom was real. My parents were at their wit’s end trying to find ways to keep me engaged…but then they found art.
A Little Watercolor Set That Changed Everything
It was my mom who sparked my love for art. When I was five, she handed me my first watercolor set—a modest collection of little cakey paints with a plastic brush that barely worked. But to me, it was magic. Within a week, I had gone through the entire set and used up every scrap of computer paper in the house. Even though my first attempts weren’t exactly masterpieces, one thing was clear: I had discovered something I truly loved.
Exploring the World of Art
That love for art became a defining part of my life. My mom encouraged me to explore it further, enrolling me in school art programs and private lessons. By the time I was a teenager, I had dabbled in just about every medium imaginable—acrylics, oils, sculpture, printmaking, and even glassblowing. Each new medium taught me something valuable, but no matter what I tried, I always found my way back to watercolor.
Why Watercolor?
Watercolor’s fluidity and unpredictability resonated with me in a way no other medium did. There’s a vulnerability to it that feels familiar—perhaps a reflection of my own experiences living with a body that doesn’t always cooperate.
Becoming a Professional Artist
I sold my first piece of art when I was just 10 years old, but my journey as a professional disabled artist truly began around the age of 14 or 15. From that point on, I knew art wasn’t just a hobby; it was a calling, a way to share my perspective with the world.
Breaking Stereotypes About Disability and Art
Through my work, I aim to capture beauty and emotion while challenging stereotypes about disability. Living with Brittle Bone Disease has shaped who I am, but it doesn’t define my capabilities as an artist. Instead, it has given me a unique lens through which I view and create my art.
The Joy of the Creative Process
Art isn’t just about the finished product for me; it’s about the process—the messy, joyful, and sometimes frustrating journey of bringing an idea to life. It’s a reminder that we are all capable of creating something beautiful, no matter our circumstances.
Final Thoughts About Art: Start Early, Experiment Often
If you’re an artist—or someone looking to explore a creative outlet—my advice is simple: start early, experiment often, and don’t be afraid to return to what you love most. After all, art is about finding your voice, and once you do, the possibilities are endless.