What if the way your brain works - and the way your hand moves - wasn’t a flaw, but a feature?

In this reflection on left-handedness, neurodivergence, and the creative process, artist Mindy Wara explores the beauty of doing things differently, and how embracing the "crooked line" has shaped her art, her identity, and her way of seeing the world.

When my work is celebrated or recognized, I feel like I’m preparing for a performance. I cling to my mask, tamping down meltdowns, fighting back tears, and trying to ignore the negative self-talk. I obsess over the details, trying to make every aspect of my life look effortless. In short, it looks like I really have my shit together.

Anchored to this desk, \ the sun is gleaming \ and time holds his breath…

Armed with awareness \ and shielded by intuition, \ I push forward from the inside out…