Sultonah Theriot
Artist Statement
"As a black mother living with mental illness, my art is an emotional exploration of my identity. I use a range of materials and techniques to express the complexities of my experience and investigate the intersection of mental illness, race, and motherhood. I often incorporate the perspectives of children, who offer unique insight into the world around us.
Living with manic depression and ADHD presents a challenge in my artistic practice. The unpredictability of these conditions can impact my ability to focus and create, leading to inconsistency and disorientation in my work. However, I am driven by a desire to use my art as a tool for self-discovery, healing, and social change. Through my work, I hope to break down the stigma surrounding mental health and create a space for open and honest conversation about often-stigmatized topics.
My artistic journey is ongoing and deeply personal. I seek to inspire others to confront their own experiences and work towards greater understanding and acceptance of mental illness and the diverse experiences of black mothers. Through my art, I hope to contribute to a more inclusive and empathetic understanding of mental health and the challenges faced by those living with mental illness."
Living with manic depression and ADHD presents a challenge in my artistic practice. The unpredictability of these conditions can impact my ability to focus and create, leading to inconsistency and disorientation in my work. However, I am driven by a desire to use my art as a tool for self-discovery, healing, and social change. Through my work, I hope to break down the stigma surrounding mental health and create a space for open and honest conversation about often-stigmatized topics.
My artistic journey is ongoing and deeply personal. I seek to inspire others to confront their own experiences and work towards greater understanding and acceptance of mental illness and the diverse experiences of black mothers. Through my art, I hope to contribute to a more inclusive and empathetic understanding of mental health and the challenges faced by those living with mental illness."
Sultonah Theriot is a black mother and artist whose work explores the intersection of mental illness, race, and motherhood. Despite the challenges posed by living with manic depression and ADHD, Sultonah uses a range of materials and techniques to express the complexities of her experience and create a space for open and honest conversation about mental health. Her work seeks to break down the stigma surrounding mental illness and contribute to a more inclusive and empathetic understanding of the diverse experiences of black mothers.
