The Ebbs and Flow of Bipolar, 2024

As a former biology pre-medicine student, I have found scientific illustrations the most beneficial for understanding and retaining information. When researching imagery related to Bipolar Disorder, I noticed a lack of work that depicted the anatomy of the disorder. Several images illustrated a subject with confused emotions or two conjoining figures. While acknowledging a patient's emotional state is crucial, I believe it is equally essential to consider the neurobiology of the disorder. One potential downside of the desensitization towards mental health and mood disorders is that we often use these conditions in casual conversation to relate to others. However, this casual use can trivialize the severity of these illnesses and the experiences of those who are diagnosed. I intended to create a comprehensive scientific drawing that precisely depicted the science and significance of the condition.

I referenced PET scans of a young patient with Bipolar Disorder. The brain scans showed brain activity through the emotional switches. I illustrated the mood switches, depression and mania, with a black-and-white digital sketch. While closely referencing the brain scans and studies, I also referenced several vintage scientific illustrations and illustrators like Georg Dionysius Ehret and Orra White Hitchcock. I aimed to create a scientifically accurate piece that is also aesthetically pleasing and visually appealing.

Medium: Scientific Illustration, digital print on handmade paper

Format: each print 6 x 8.5”