I have a vivid memory of my sister asking me "why are you so mousy?" I did not know how to answer at the time. I now have a better understanding of why. Being mousy, fawn-like, whatever animal metaphor you want to use...it's how I learned to protect myself.
(also...sorry for the late upload this week, life's been hectic!)
A graphic memoir that features Inkwell, a character who represents the most emotional, traumatized, and sometimes subconscious parts of me. With him, I delve into my tumultuous relationship with my father and the impact of a painful break-up, exploring how the past influences my current struggles with moral perfectionism, care, and activism.
CONTENT WARNING: Lessons from Inkwell discusses mental health and emotional abuse. It does not contain graphic depictions or descriptions of events. However, please use your own judgement: know your triggers, consult a trusted adult, and take care of yourself!
ARTIST STATEMENT:
Through Lessons from Inkwell, I learn to face my father’s contradictions alongside my own, as I weave my past into a new vision of my future. In the chapters currently being released, I show my journey towards accepting my humanity—contradictions and all. This will unravel into future uploads, where I will be seeking a new understanding of care and activism.
My acceptance of Inkwell was once conditional on the form he took—I saw him as unwanted and monstrous unless he was small and convenient. Now I see that he—and I—deserve love and care in all of our forms. I hope this comic inspires others to think critically and compassionately about what healing means for themselves and the world we share, just as making it has done for me.
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