I Can Paint Myself Flowers

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 shape 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 found in 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.

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An Indian-style vase, repaired with gold and repurposed to hold brushes and palette knives, reflects a journey of breaking, mending, and finding new purpose through art. Painted carnations quietly reference queer identity and freedom, while the vase speaks to cultural resilience. 

This piece reflects healing when support is scarce, and creativity becomes both companion and lifeline. While flowers often accompany physical illness, this work asks: what do we offer when the struggle is invisible? Through art, the artist offers care and reclamation for themselves and others.