A talented painter does not let bipolar disorder stand in her way.
Danielle Wittstock (34) started painting around the age of 18 and what once was a hobby, has now become a means for survival.
Wittstock explained she was diagnosed with bipolar disorder at 28. Her mom was already a resident of Ebenezer Psychiatric Home as she suffers from the same illness.
She stated art always had a calming effect on her and when she was diagnosed she found it was rather therapeutic.
“If I’ve had a hectic day, art is the one thing that calms me down,” explained Wittstock.
She noted her favourite types of art include portraits and abstract painting, however, her all-time favourite is African art. She stated she particularly enjoys the ‘ expressive colours’ and the ‘free style’.
She said her art is mostly inspired by life experiences and spirituality. She continued spirituality and her faith in people is what gets her through.
Wittstock noted her life experiences have been vast, from living in Asia for five years to having travelled to 20 countries, however, South Africa will always be her favourite.
“We live in the most beautiful country in the world. One that is rich in food, culture and wildlife. I try to capture this in my work and it is also what inspires me,” she said.
She added that she hopes to see more of the wildlife sometime. She would also like to sell some of her work. Further, she would like to teach people about art and how freeing it could be and also how it can help a person with their stress levels and how good it is for their energy.
She noted she would like more people to visit Ebenezer to create awareness of mental health and hopes people can support Ebenezer’s arts and crafts as for many of the patients this is their only outlet. She continued every one of them put love into their work and it would be great for people to support that.
Any person interested can contact Gaenor Oosthuizen on 079 910 5922.
