Paper Cuts

The ‘Paper Cuts’ artwork explores the impact of language on mental health. Created through a combination of collage and drawing techniques, they bring attention to the passive/aggressive phrases and words that are often used to bully and blame individuals. The works feature a clash of cartoon-like imagery and hand-drawn text, highlighting phrases such as “being resilient” and “gentle reminder” that can be used in a harmful manner. Similarly, as technology rapidly evolves, so too does the absurdity of the language we use to describe it. This language is parodied to highlight how it can make us as humans feel anxious, out-of-date, or redundant.

The series encourages open conversations about mental health and challenges the notion that individuals can be ‘fixed’, which distracts us from attempting to create a more equal and supportive society. It’s a call to action to rethink the way we communicate and to understand the power of words.

Drawings are 42cm x 30cm on vintage scrapbook paper in mixed media

Currently touring libraries in London (2023 – 2025) as part of How Are You (Really?), supported by Creative People & Places, Arts Council England and the University of Portsmouth.

Cranford Library, London, April 2023 – Dec 2023
Hanworth Library, London, Jan 2024 – April 2024
Feltham Library, London, April 2024 – Sep 2024
Heston Library, London, Oct 2025 – June 2025
Tour continues…

Also featured in my serial zine
Future Fantasteek! #22 ‘Paper Cuts’ (2023)