Amanda de Ocampo
Escapism
A collection that sets the tone for new and old techniques by applying soft acrylic brush movements to imitate watercolor techniques’ burst of color on paper. To create subtle tones combined with vibrant colors, dark hues and soft white brush strokes.
Each piece was a sense of relief from unpleasant realities to pass the time from COVID lockdown. Seeking entertainment and engaging in daydreams.
2021 Collection
Embrace the Shakes
Since I was diagnosed with epilepsy at 19, I never saw an actual photo or video of me having an attack. I was always curious but afraid of knowing. The pose in this painting was described to me by family and friends who have witnessed me having auras, seizures and blackouts. I asked how my hands looked, if I was turning blue or grinding my teeth while biting my tongue at the same time. It couldn’t have been easy for my family or friends to witness that then have them describe it to me but I am grateful to know that I am surrounded by the right circle of friends that just gets it. Friends, family and even random strangers who I have met just knew what to do when it comes to seizure first aid. Those who understood my disability more than I did and didn’t judge too harshly with my memory loss or when I repeat the same things over. I appreciate each of you for inspiring me to finally open up and share some stories through my paintings. An on-going journey on embracing epilepsy even if it has several unknown struggles like epilepsy stigma, myths, wellness, relationships, religion, dating, finance and work life.
This first piece that follows my epileptic journey highlights the frozen, shake-like gestures from the neck, hands and feet once a seizure happens inside the brain. Even in darkness, the vibrant foliage surrounding the body symbolises the support of all the heroes in my life who have helped me at my worst and most vulnerable state.
“Just because you’ve been seizure free for 22 months, it doesn’t mean you are not epileptic.” That’s what my neuro told me when I informed her about my last seizure 3 weeks ago. A harsh reality after being seizure free for 22 months back then. Moving on. The positive side to this are the seizures are happening way less, years apart and I’m learning to listen to my body more. That alone is progress. Next time, I’ll break my own record and maybe even more.
Size: 3.5ft x 5ft
Medium: acrylic on canvas
INKLINGS | Illustration & Graphic Design
COVID Diaries Lockdown
MORENA SERIES
Digital art or graphic design
COMMISSIONED PIECES | Acrylic on canvas
ILLUSTRATION & GRAPHIC DESIGN
Watercolor illustrations and graphic design for food products with The Blue Kitchen
TOWNSCAPE ILLUSTRATIONS
Watercolor landscapes from France to Italy
BEAR HUGS TRIBE
Watercolor Character illustrations
