In this painting, I aimed to encapsulate a sense of isolation and depth, reflective of my own experiences with PTSD. The central figure is a lone octopus, painted in stark black, against an expansive blue ocean backdrop. The octopus, with its tentacles outstretched, symbolizes both vulnerability and resilience. It’s a creature of adaptability, much like myself, navigating the vast and often tumultuous sea of emotions that come with PTSD.

The blue hues of the ocean range from light to dark, illustrating the varying depths of my mental state—sometimes calm and serene, other times overwhelming and deep. The small, bright fish scattered throughout the scene add touches of color and life, representing fleeting moments of clarity and hope amidst the vastness of the struggles.

The seabed at the bottom, with its subtle details of rocks and corals, grounds the scene, reminding me of the importance of finding stability and grounding techniques in my journey. This artwork is a reflection of my inner world, painted as a form of therapy to navigate and express the complex emotions tied to my PTSD. Each brushstroke was a step towards healing, a way to externalize and confront the internal battles.