Shay - First name Crow

Simone Sequeira is an emerging mixed-media artist from Meanjin/Brisbane who is deeply committed to destigmatising psychosocial disabilities. Her experiences of complex trauma profoundly shapes her practice, with art therapy supporting her to reclaim her identity as a neurodivergent, queer individual navigating ADHD, anxiety, and depression.

In 2023, Simone underwent treatment for stage IV cancer, processing pain and uncertainty through creativity. Now in remission, she celebrates radical self-acceptance and a renewed sense of purpose through merging her love of art, mental health advocacy, queer identity, and disability visibility. 

Simone particularly enjoys the meditative and deliberate process of lino-carving and printing. Through her work, she transforms moments of strength and vulnerability into a visual record of hope, expression, connection, and empowerment.

Follow Simone on Instagram.

Crows are highly intelligent, adaptable, and gather in family groups - yet they’re often seen as pests or harbingers of doom. Similarly, stigma causes people to view those struggling with mental illness as weak or dangerous, rather than recognising their resilience and strength. Shay is the mum in the murder of crows that visit our house daily, keeping both her offspring in line.