Artist Stephanie Gowdy, who is legally blind, presents an astonishing collection of portraits inspired by her faith. Find more of her artwork on her website.
“Untitled” mixed media on paper, 18″ x 24″
I have always loved art and loved creating my entire life. However, I didn’t become a full-time artist until I lost my eyesight. When I was 22, I suddenly began to lose my sight. As crazy as it sounds, I didn’t really recognize how drastically until someone saw me with my phone an inch or two from my face and took me to get glasses.
“Untitled” graphite on paper, 18″ x 24″
Unfortunately, during my appointment I found out I had a serious eye condition. I was told I was going to go blind. After trying to gather my thoughts and then my tears, I found out I was already legally blind. I was diagnosed with keratoconus, but was able to have surgery to stop the progression of the condition and stop from completely losing my eyesight. The depression all of this caused was unreal, but ironically the thing that saved me mentally was creating.
“Untitled” mixed media,18″ x 24″
There is part of a verse in the Bible that kept coming to me, Proverbs 29:18. “Where there is no vision, the people perish.” I may have lost my physical vision, but God blessed me with inner vision, so I am able to create and not perish.
“Justice” acrylic on canvas, 30″ x 40″
Despite my many struggles in life such as being diagnosed with epilepsy during my second pregnancy, divorce, and literally losing my sight and becoming legally blind, I realized God didn’t take my sight to disable me. He changed my sight so I could clearly see the purpose for which He created me.
“Restful Wall” mixed media on paper, 18″ x 24″
As a creator, I work with acrylic on canvas along with mixed media graphite and charcoal on paper for portraits. I am always asked the meaning behind my pieces. I very rarely had answers, until an art coach told me as a description for my work. “You create the unspeakable, you create pieces that represent things or feelings that are really difficult for people to vocalize.”
“Untitled” graphite, 18″ x 24″
After that it clicked for me. I know they are more than difficult for me to vocalize. I believe that art can be for everyone, to not only create awareness for multiple topics, but bring society together.
“Cosby” graphite, 18″ x 24″
I refuse to allow life setbacks, health issues, or the loss of my eyesight stop me. I’m living out my purpose while sharing my inner vision and inspiring others to follow their dreams.
Stephanie Gowdy invites you to follow on Instagram and TikTok.
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