If I did not feel free to express myself through creation, my life would be without a soul. Freedom of creative expression allows me to be the most genuine and unique version of myself. In my art specifically, I tap into my experience living in big cities. I often illustrate and find beauty in darker, grimier, more chaotic works of art. This is a direct expression of the places I’ve been and seen. Through visual art, I’ve sharpened my visual-thinking mind. I am able to see beauty and know exactly why I’m attracted to it, and that level of thought would never have happened if I did not feel free to express my ideas and explore creativity. Thankfully, my parents have always motivated me to express myself using art. They put me into art classes and made sure to never let anyone put me down. I wouldn’t have unique countercultural ideals of beauty and value if not for their endless stream of motivation. I hope by being true to myself in my art, I inspire others to do the same. I hope that everyone, including non-artists, can find their own unique visual language, because a world without unique perspectives and freedom to express those perspectives is one without flavor.