Artist Statement: Morgan M.
Hometown: St. Louis, MO
Sobriety Date: April 27, 2015 
Favorite Media: Photography and Painting

Specs:

• Spray Paint on Plywood

• Framed

• 24 in x 19.9 in

Connection 

Art is a chance for me to challenge myself – push beyond my comfort zone. My major inspiration comes from observing what is going on inside my thoughts, my feelings, and with the people closest to me. My family, especially my mother, has influenced my work.

I strive to inspire a connection through my artwork. People who have seen my art and have heard my thinking about my artwork seem to relate to me. There is a bond. This connection goes both ways. I also feel connected to them through our dialogue about my work. Making art with Hope Creates allows me to be a beacon of hope for others struggling with addiction – outside of my recovery meetings. There is hope. You can find joy and recovery. It’s a creative way for me to be in service to other addicts who are searching for a better way.

Listening is my process of making artwork. I take time to look inside, hear what I feel, listen through a light meditation, and then decide what I want to create. Through meditation, I get my answers. Other times I find direction from outside, by simply asking someone what they would like to see. Either way, I listen first.