The Fire Behind The Tears:

  The Art

of

Megan Ginter

Artist Statement

I was raised in a very artistic family, and there were plenty of opportunities in the arts all around me.  But it was an illness that turned art into something more than a hobby for me.  At age 22 I was diagnosed with schizoaffective disorder.  This disease is kind of like the symptoms of schizophrenia and bipolar disorder mixed together.  I experience manic highs, depressive lows, and disturbing hallucinations.  It is sometimes hard for me to put into words what I am experiencing and that’s when art becomes a therapeutic tool.  I can easily paint and draw what I am going through.  The people around me can look at my art and for the first time be a part of my world.  This makes me feel less isolated and better understood.

Currently I reside in Perrysburg , Ohio, attend classes at Bowling Green State University , work for our local mental health agency, as well as produce art.  My favorite media include oil pastels, oil color, and acrylic.  I enjoy using bold colors to represent how dramatic life is with schizoaffective disorder.  I see my art as not just an expression, but also a call for advocacy for others living with mental illness.