why am i sad

An exploration of the complex interplay between mental health and artistic expression. 

In Why am I Sad? Dana Stirling embarks on an exploration of the complex interplay between mental health and artistic expression. 
 
“Growing up I spent most of my time in my room, wherein loneliness pervaded both within and beyond its walls. Family failed to provide solace; instead, it became a source of stress, anxiety, and a prevailing sadness. Often unspoken in my family, my mother's battle with clinical depression cast a shadow that took years to fully comprehend.” 

Through navigating her own emotions, the project assumes a broader cultural significance, transcending personal narratives to engage with universal discourse on mental health. The visual diary created through photography becomes a testament to the transformative power of art, revealing layers of vulnerability, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of meaning. It underscores the importance of acknowledging mental health challenges within social contexts and highlights the role of artistic expression as a vehicle for healing and understanding. 

Dana Stirling is an award-winning fine art photographer, as well as Co-Founder and Editor of Float Photo Magazine. Originally from Jerusalem, Israel, Dana is currently based in Queens, New York. Her work has been prominently included in group exhibitions in the United States and globally, and has been featured in numerous publications.