To Be Seen Artist Series: Melissa Sherman
I have always created art. Even as a very small child, I began building things out of mud, sticks and things I found around our yard. I am 63 now, so likely for 60 years. In the past, I explored anything that was in my head….hence the ED related work. I kept these works secret for a very long time due to feeling shame. I tried to turn more to my passions, what was important to me at the present time. Right now my work is all about dogs.
Ed has been with me since I was about 12 years old, so 51 years. How often do I get to share these ED related ideas/thoughts/pieces without fear of judgement, misunderstanding and shame? I also felt it was an opportunity for me to “give back” and help an organization created to help and support those managing an ED.
Creating art was just something I always needed to do. It felt innate.
[In relation to the topic of being seen] I still feel shame due to ED. Most often I prefer NOT to be seen on many levels. I guess, though, I see “To Be Seen” as an opportunity to help understanding of the disorder, explain the intricacies, the intense elements of living with an ED to those that do not.
I am not sure I have ever felt seen. Generally, I am so wrapped up in my own emotions of discomfort, shame, embarrassment, that even when I possible am “seen” I feel more “On Display” than seen.
I love the process of making art. I can forget about other nagging issues and thoughts, and I become immersed in the creative process. I get lost in other thoughts, not just ED thoughts and fears. It is one of the only moments that I can truly feel myself.
As I mentioned, I rarely feel seen. It is an opportunity to help and support others and the organization. It is an opportunity for me to slow down, not have to move-creating art gives me that “excuse” and I can forget about the ED thoughts for a while. Creating art also offers me an opportunity to have a reason for being.
[If you could show your work in any gallery, what would it be?] Not sure but likely any well known gallery. I am from NY so maybe a really cool gallery there.
[When people see your work, what do you want them to come away with?] Understanding. Ed for me is NOT just about food. It about the emotions, thoughts, the sadness, the feelings of empty and loneliness, etc.