Many women will experience a moment in their lives where they no longer recognise themselves. This loss of identity can be triggered by motherhood, menopause, career changes, neurodivergence, body image, ageing, abusive relationships — and many other life events. These experiences can quietly erode confidence and self-worth, having a profound impact on mental health. Yet so often, women don’t ask for help. Instead, they put everyone else first and struggle in silence, through fear of judgement or feeling like they should simply “cope”.

This is why I created The Myself Portrait Project.

The Myself Portrait Project is a creative wellbeing initiative that supports women’s mental health and encourages self-acceptance through art. It offers free, one-to-one drawing sessions to women who feel lost and are ready to take back a small but meaningful amount of time for themselves.

During these sessions, we sit side by side in my Stourbridge studio and draw together. I teach each woman how to create her own self-portrait, gently guiding her through the process while providing a calm, supportive, and non-judgemental space. For some women, this time becomes a chance to talk openly. For others, it is a rare moment of quiet. Both are equally valued.

Although the project centres on drawing, its impact goes far beyond art. It helps women by:

* encouraging them to leave the house and prioritise themselves

* giving them permission to do something just for them

* offering a creative, mindfulness-based activity

* providing a safe space for conversation or quiet reflection

* teaching a new skill and rebuilding confidence through progress and achievement

* and ultimately, encouraging deeper self-acceptance

The women who have already taken part have each experienced deeply personal and positive outcomes. Click the link below to hear Zosia's story -

https://youtube.com/shorts/Eo5ddnuVFOM?si=TM1hJwB1fSRJd6FA

Seeing the shift in how they view themselves — both on paper and in real life — is the reason I am so passionate about continuing this project and supporting as many women as I possibly can.

To keep The Myself Portrait Project running and growing, I rely on donations and sponsorship. All funds raised will go directly towards:

* providing free sessions for more women

* covering essential materials and running costs

* and contributing towards a future exhibition

My long-term aim is to hold an exhibition during International Women’s Week in 2028, showcasing all the self-portraits created through the project. This exhibition will give visibility to the often unseen struggles women carry, while celebrating their resilience, creativity, and self-acceptance.

Alongside individual donations, I am also seeking business sponsorships of £250 per business. This amount directly supports one woman to complete her series of sessions. In return, sponsoring businesses will receive:

* a short promotional video for their business

* recognition across my social media platforms

* recognition at the 2028 exhibition

* and updates on the woman they have sponsored and the impact they are helping to make

If you are able to donate or sponsor the project, no matter how big or small, you will be helping to make creative wellbeing accessible to women who may not otherwise have the opportunity. Your support could be the reason a woman gives herself permission to be seen again.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this and for supporting The Myself Portrait Project. Your generosity truly makes a difference.