Art Saves.

Tell us about your art. Tell us about your journey.

black mental health is important!

At Afro, we understand that mental health within our community - the Black community - is a crisis that is frequently pushed aside and overlooked. With Art Saves, Afro aims to face the realities of our mental health and reduce the negative stigma that surrounds it. We want to demonstrate the power that art has on mental health, and we hope that you can help us.

Below this text, you will find the words of Black creators from around the globe. Perhaps, your words are here too.

This is a safe space created for the cultivation of mental health. We hope it brings you solace in these times.

For mental health resources, go to Afro Mental Health Resources.

Afro Literary Magazine . 9/16/21 Afro Literary Magazine . 9/16/21

Cheryl Diane Parkinson

I have always struggled with that feeling of not belonging. Not knowing who I am. Not knowing my history.

Afro Literary Magazine . 9/16/21 Afro Literary Magazine . 9/16/21

Dre

My parents laugh about how they were frantically trying to keep me from coloring on the walls when I was a young child. But nonetheless, I have always been a creative.

Afro Literary Magazine . 8/12/21 Afro Literary Magazine . 8/12/21

Lysz Flo

Afro Literary Magazine . 8/7/21 Afro Literary Magazine . 8/7/21

anonymous

I came back to visual art after being a contemporary dancer for 18 years. I developed an undiagnosed condition that made it difficult for me to breath and walk for a longer distance.

Afro Literary Magazine . 7/15/21 Afro Literary Magazine . 7/15/21

Jaachi Anyatonwu

I thought love was only experienced with people—which is why I spent agonizing time and emotional treasures pursuing relationships. You see, right now I’m in love with love itself. The thought of loving, being loved, giving and receiving feels like the ultimate purpose for me.

I'm in love with me.