Issy

The need to create art is something I have both repressed and embraced at different times in my life. When I was very young I drew pictures every day to express how I was feeling but as I got older I stopped wanting to engage with how I was feeling.

Living with Borderline Personality Disorder is a gift in one way but can also be very painful and challenging. My emotions can terrify and paralyse me at times. I am also diagnosed with Autism, ADHD and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, all of which present their own challenges and strengths in my life.

I have used art many times as an adult to process my emotions, often hiding pieces once I've finished them until I am able to look at them again months or years later. I use art to obsess and hyper-focus in a safe way, to reflect on my life and to remember who I am.

You can follow the lovely Issy on Instagram: @isabelle_haythorne_art