Do your mental health challenges sometimes feel like little monsters in your head?
That was the concept behind the ongoing “Little Monsters” illustration series by artist Syd Evans, who has created four “little monster” illustrations that embody various mental health challenges. (Pictured above: Depression and Dysmorphia.)
Now, the artist is adding more monsters to this unique series. This spring, Syd asked for submissions for ideas a new “Little Monster” — and there were so many responses from across the country, that there are now two new monsters ready to make their debut!
Come to Made in ALX at 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 20 to meet the new monsters, embodying anxiety and social anxiety.
The goal of Syd’s series has been to create “little monsters” that represent a mental health condition.
“They don’t inflict the mental health condition onto someone, but rather they experience it themselves and embody it,” Evans explained.
The monsters are not meant to be particularly scary. The four original monsters include ADHD, body dysmorphia, hyperfocus and depression.
“I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who submitted an idea for the Little Monsters concept contest. Reading through your entries has been deeply moving,” the artist said. “Many of you shared incredibly personal experiences and emotions, and I’m so honored that you trusted me with those stories. Every submission was thoughtful, creative, and powerful in its own way. Each one was a reminder of the strength it takes to name and explore our mental health journeys.”
“It’s clear that these monsters are meaningful not just to me, but to many of you as well. Choosing just one design to bring to life was not easy, and in the end choosing TWO winners was the only way to go!”