An artist’s journey to self-acceptance

Abstract

Purpose

This paper provides an insight into the left and career of the sculptress Victoria Claire, told in her own words.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a lived experience narrative.

Findings

Diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa at the age of 19, Victoria’s life was turned upside down. Plunged into the depths of despair, it was her love for and practice of sculpture and music which saved her and gave her purpose. Years of therapy have helped her to understand and love herself as beautiful imperfection.

Practical implications

The vast majority of us inhabit a “sighted world”. Victoria helps us to understand how many of the things we take for granted are so much harder for the visually impaired.

Social implications

We all need to be sensitive to helping those with sensory difficulties navigate our social world.

Originality/value

When you look at the amazing sculptures that Victoria creates, you cannot help but be impressed that she can create such works of art using her hands, her sculpting tools and her imagination. We can gaze at the beauty of her creations. She cannot.

Citation

Claire, V. (2024), "An artist’s journey to self-acceptance", Mental Health and Social Inclusion, Vol. 28 No. 6, pp. 1432-1438. https://doi.org/10.1108/MHSI-04-2024-0062