About me

Growing up we didn’t have much money, but my mom and grandma always made sure we had markers, crayons, and paper. My two sisters and I spent most of our time creating stories using each other as drawing references and getting inspired by our favorite music and cartoons.

In my recent work, I use my life experience to express how trauma in childhood can lead to long-term mental health concerns in adulthood.

A vibrant acrylic color palette, lighting, hidden images in the shadows, and media such as string and yarn, are used to help express the complex nature of how trauma ties into our daily lives, no matter how young we are when we experience it.

Creating makes me feel close to myself and the people I make it with. Along With therapy, it has helped me process heavy trauma and in turn, see the beauty that grows through adversity. I’m not sure what I would do without it.

Maya Amen

Lawrence, Kansas