Create a powerful vector illustration titled "Mental Health Matters" to serve as a visual centerpiece for a magazine, editorial, or book dedicated to promoting mental health awareness and understanding. The primary objective is to communicate the importance of mental health and destigmatize conversations surrounding it through a compelling and empathetic visual narrative.

I wanted to raise awareness to those who don't really know how impactful mental health is, regarding all individuals. I've Illustrated two individuals experiencing various emotions and challenges related to mental health, fostering empathy and understanding among viewers. One is struggling, and one is thriving in mentality. The clouds and non-stop rain over the head makes it difficult to enjoy everyday life or even enjoy the things you do love. Whereas the growing plants with the sun and brain are encouraging, living everyday life fully with joy, and even spreading love out to everybody. I think we would all love to be at this point. But it takes practice especially if you already deal with depression and/or anxiety. 

I chose blue hues to evoke a calming presence and to symbolize healing. By opting for less stark colors in the illustration, I aim to convey the message that even when things appear fine on the surface, there can still be underlying pain and struggles. 

We all deal with it. But how we deal with it especially matters.

Final Illustration on left. Even though this was originally for a magazine editorial illustration spread, I created a square book cover to go along with the option for a book.

Final mockups of magazine & book.