Self-portrait in graphite exploring stillness and renewal
Artwork and story from Jaweeda Gallagher
I am a Doctor in Greater Manchester, where my professional life has been devoted to improving health and wellbeing in communities. A central part of this work is advocating for creative health—the belief that creativity is not simply a hobby, but a powerful source of emotional, mental, and social restoration. For many years I encouraged creativity in others, yet never allowed space for it in my own life.
What place art takes in my life
This changed in July 2025, when I began drawing during a time when I needed quietness, reflection, and renewal. From the first marks on paper, I felt a profound stillness. Drawing became the one place where the noise of responsibility softened and I could simply be present. Although I have never formally studied art, it quickly became essential to my balance and wellbeing.
The self portrait I submit is deeply personal: exploring stillness, identity, and healing. It tells a story of learning to see again.
What challenges I have in art
As a completely self-taught beginner, my greatest challenge is understanding why drawing works—structure, proportion, light, shadow, perspective, and composition. I want to move beyond careful imitation toward confident, intentional creation grounded in strong foundations. Time is also a challenge, and I am learning to give creativity a rightful place within a caring profession.
What I want to learn in art
I hope to gain enhanced drawing skills, deeper understanding of light and form, spatial depth, confident tone and composition, and—most importantly—to develop an authentic artistic voice that reflects my life and values.
What I think about Drawing Academy
Drawing Academy represents discipline, rigour, and true artistic education. Its commitment to classical foundations and serious learning aligns deeply with my desire to understand drawing honestly and thoroughly.
Why I want to win the Drawing Academy course
Winning this scholarship would be transformative. It would provide the training I have never had and allow me to connect personal healing through art with my professional commitment to creative health, ultimately supporting the wellbeing of patients, carers, and communities.
Why people should vote for me
This journey is about more than learning to draw. It is about showing that creativity can restore balance, even in the most demanding lives, and that it is never too late to begin again. I hope this opportunity will allow that message of healing, care, and possibility to reach far beyond my own story.
