Jodie Barrile is an artist from Melbourne.
Art has been a constant in her life, starting out drawing and painting from a young age with her Mother who did folk art.
As she grew up, life happened and anxiety moved in. Through her own art she began (unknowingly) her own art therapy and expressed her feelings and self through many different pieces.
In adult life, art has always been a passion, but with the development of depression, interest began to wane.
But from the ashes, she rose, staring her disability right in the face and seeing it for it was. Not some heavyweight bringing her down, but a part of her she can work with and grow stronger and better together.
As the passion for art has come back, she has embraced her true self and is thriving.
Jodie currently enjoys coloured pencil, ink, pencil sketching and digital art. Outside of this she also loves taking photos of flowers, animals and bees.
I created this artwork when I was younger and felt I was not accomplished enough.
I realized I spent a lot of time criticising myself, and not celebrating the beauty within.
We are all beautiful, strong and capable.
When I look at this picture I am reminded how strong and beautiful I am. And it inspires me to keep leading the way to equality for all.
It doesn't matter on what's on the outside, being a good person and leader comes from within.