BEYOND THE THRESHOLD | Aubrey Reed

“This visual distortion symbolizes the altered perception of reality in mental illness, blurring boundaries between the external world and inner psyche into a surreal landscape. The house covering the figure's eyes serves as a metaphor for mental illness barriers, obstructing clear vision. Despite concealment, the eyes peer through, capturing raw emotion and vulnerability. The interplay of light and shadow deepens emotional depth, evoking confinement juxtaposed with glimmers of hope. 'Beyond the threshold' reminds of mental health's multifaceted nature, urging acknowledgment of humanity in those with psychological turmoil and fostering dialogue on mental wellness and empathy.”

Aubrey Reed, a current MD/PhD candidate at Emory School of Medicine, brings a unique perspective to their pursuits. Driven by a passion for medicine and research, Reed is deeply committed to exploring the intricacies of human experience. Drawing from personal experiences as a patient, she seeks to highlight the humanity of patients and to foster discussions about empathy and empowerment. Utilizing art as a tool to delve into the complexities of illness and wellness, Reed integrates scientific inquiry with empathetic understanding, aiming to meet patients where they are at in their healing journey. By understanding their needs and goals, Reed hopes to help patients heal in ways that are meaningful to them, fostering holistic approaches to healthcare.