My name is Hen. I am a high school senior, lifeguard, and digital artist who focuses on character

design. Throughout high school, I have learned pain can bring knowledge and trauma can bring

inspiration for the arts and life. To some, that may sound cliche, but that statement wholly

describes my experience in middle school and early years of high school. During this time, I

struggled socially and emotionally; I would draw so I could calm down when I was feeling

anxious. Creating art was important to me because it helped me regulate my emotions. For

many, art is a hobby, but for me I escaped to the drawings I created when I felt the world was

hurting me.

As I developed my art style, I was influenced by artists I looked up to and to this day I am still

inspired by my two favorite artists, Oliver Benit and June Lynn. These individuals overcame

trauma when they were younger and are now able to do what they love while inspiring others. I

taught myself to improve by studying various art styles, anatomy, and color theory, and

developing my rendering skills. Drawing was not just an escape, it allowed me to reflect on

what I can change about myself to be better suited for my social and professional life. Art has

allowed me to grow as a person and express myself in ways I could not previously. I use my art

now to create diverse and unique characters that can represent everyone.