Chicago artist Anthony Bartley reveals art's rejuvenating force
Chicago Artist Anthony Bartley's Healing Journey Through Art
Anthony Bartley, a talented artist from Chicago's South Side, has a unique healing journey that is deeply connected to his painting. This connection was forged after a critical moment on March 17, 2017, when Bartley experienced a suicide attempt.
Bartley, who graduated college during the COVID-19 pandemic, decided to become a full-time artist with a mission to help others. His art serves as a testament to this mission, with pieces like "Archaeology of Self" symbolizing exploration and discovery of identity and emotional depth.
Painting has been more than a craft for Bartley; it has been a form of therapy and survival. It allows him to confront and process depression visually and spiritually, helping transform overwhelming feelings into something tangible and meaningful.
Bartley's process often starts with journaling his feelings, which then inspire his visual work. His art acts as a visual record of his struggles and healing, resonating deeply with audiences. Viewers have reported an emotional resonance with his paintings, sometimes saying they can "hear" the piece, underscoring the powerful communicative and therapeutic nature of his art.
Rob McKay, owner of Connect Gallery in Hyde Park, fell in love with Bartley's art due to its focus on mental awareness, growth, and life cycles. Bartley's exhibit "Words I've Never Said" was shown at Connect Gallery, serving as a eulogy to communication, addressing unspoken words to people who have passed or are no longer with him.
Anthony Bartley's art can be found on Instagram (@fadingroyalty) and his website (fadingroyalty.com). For those in need of mental health care resources and support, The National Alliance on Mental Illness HelpLine can be reached at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or via email at [email protected]. For mental health emergencies, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available to call or text 988, or chat at the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline's website.
Bartley's healing journey is a powerful reminder of the healing power of art. His story serves as an inspiration to many, demonstrating the transformative potential of creativity in the face of adversity.
[1] - The exhibit "Words I've Never Said" by Anthony Bartley was shown at Connect Gallery in Hyde Park. [2] - Bartley has a piece called "Archaeology of Self." [3] - Rob McKay, owner of Connect Gallery, fell in love with Bartley's art due to its focus on mental awareness, growth, and life cycles. [4] - Bartley graduated college right after the COVID-19 pandemic hit. [5] - Anthony Bartley decided to become a full-time artist with a mission to help others. [6] - Anthony Bartley is proud to use his art to build community and help others. [7] - For information about mental health care resources and support, The National Alliance on Mental Illness HelpLine can be reached at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264) or via email at [email protected]. [8] - Jeanette, Anthony Bartley's mother, rediscovered art as a therapeutic tool around the same time as her son. [9] - Anthony Bartley's art can be found on Instagram (@fadingroyalty) and his website (fadingroyalty.com). [10] - Anthony Bartley had a mental breakdown in Chicago, feeling like all his progress was lost. [11] - Anthony Bartley is a Chicago artist. [12] - "Words I've Never Said" by Anthony Bartley is a eulogy to communication, addressing unspoken words to people who have passed or are no longer with him. [13] - For mental health emergencies, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available to call or text 988, or chat at the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline's website.
- The focus of Rob McKay, owner of Connect Gallery, on mental health awareness, growth, and life cycles resonated with Anthony Bartley's art, leading to the exhibit "Words I've Never Said" being shown at Connect Gallery in Hyde Park.
- Anthony Bartley's art pieces, such as "Archaeology of Self," symbolize exploration, discovery of identity, and emotional depth, serving as a testament to his mission to help others.
- Apart from using his art for personal growth and healing, Anthony Bartley is committed to building a community and helping others through his creative expression, showcasing his work on Instagram (@fadingroyalty) and his website (fadingroyalty.com).
