I’m excited to introduce ANIMA, a project close to my heart aimed at improving the lives of individuals affected by mental health challenges, with a special focus on bipolar disorder. Through my photography, I hope to spark conversations, raise awareness, and foster a deeper understanding of mental health issues. My goal is to challenge the stigma surrounding mental health and help create a society where these conversations are not only welcomed but encouraged.

As a professional photographer, I’ve been capturing moments for years, and I’ve seen firsthand how art can be a powerful tool for healing and expression. Over time, I’ve found that photography has not only been a way for me to connect with others but also a way to heal myself—something I know deeply from my own personal experience with depression. That’s why I’m pouring my energy into ANIMA, where I aim to create exhibitions, books, and a website that show the faces of those living with mental health challenges in a way that’s relatable and empowering.

ANIMA isn’t just about telling a story—it’s about creating a community where people feel safe and supported. I want these exhibitions to serve as spaces for people to see themselves, to realize they’re not alone, and to open up about their experiences without fear of judgment. We’ll focus on mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder, but also look at how these struggles are often intertwined with other social challenges—homelessness, addiction, poverty,

and the isolation many people feel, especially in a post-pandemic world.

Through this project, I aim to show that mental health doesn’t have a “face” or a stereotype. The people I photograph won’t just be “ordinary” individuals—they’ll be heroes, those we might typically see as perfect, invincible, or fearless. Yet, the truth is that every superhero has their own story, their own trauma, and their own mental health challenges. We all have our struggles, and it’s crucial to remember that no one is immune. Whether it’s a family member, a friend, or a colleague, mental health can touch anyone.

I want ANIMA to be more than just an art project—it’s a call to action, an invitation to break the silence, and a step toward a world where mental health is treated with the same care and attention as physical health. I’m reaching out now because I need your help to bring this vision to life. As a freelance photographer based in Los Angeles, I know how challenging it can be to find the spaces and resources needed to build a project like this, so your support—whether it’s through donations, sharing, or simply starting conversations—means everything.

Together, we can start a meaningful conversation about mental health, one photo at a time. Thank you for being part of this important journey.