Description
About me
I'm Elaine De Guzman, 26 y/o. I've been seeing a psychiatrist for more than 2 years. I was previously diagnosed with major depressive disorder but after trying more than 5 (or more) types of antidepressants without seeing an improvement of my condition, I decided to see another shrink and that's when I was diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder.
Art, just like everyone else, has been my refuge whenever things get bumpy. It helps me express the state I’m currently in and sometimes escape from over thinking and other intrusive thoughts. I started drawing when I was already 19 years old with the intention of meditating through what they call “Zentangles” as it has the power to put me in a trance and take a rest from myself while allowing me to share to people how I feel. What started as patterns later turned into illustrations when I started learning how to draw faces and trying painting using different mediums such as watercolour and acrylic.
More than a year-long episode of extreme ups and downs deprived me of trying out things and I felt like I missed a lot; hence, last year, I started trying to go out of my comfort zone through my artworks and I'm amused how it allowed me to put myself in front of a crowd. Something I can't do given my anxiety. Most of my artworks were filled with details, I'm thinking it's because I always wish to fill the empty spaces inside me.
Work / Education
I have a degree in B.S. International Relations major in International Trade. I am currently working as a freelance writer/researcher with experience in English teaching and customer service. Having to work without fixed schedule gives me more freedom to focus on my art. It also helps me prioritize self-care among other things.
