This painting is about being the true version of ourselves, rather than the one others want us to be.

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For a long time, I adapted myself for others. It felt like the safest way to move through the world and protected me from conflict. But there was a cost to living this way. It was exhausting.

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After I accepted myself, scars and all, I realised I didn't need to change who I was. I could simply be myself. This was one of the steps I took towards feeling free.

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In the painting, the act of removing the mask reflects that moment of change. The effort in the hands and face is intentional because choosing to be yourself takes courage. 

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The background represents the old life, where old patterns and behaviours lived. The circles suggest containment.

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It reminds us that choosing to be ourself can be one of the most powerful steps towards freedom.