Hi all,
My name is Chris Swain and I am the artist behind ZAVARLI ART. As a proud Goreng Goreng man and progressive contemporary artist, I use my work to tell powerful stories about mental health through a contemporary Indigenous lens. With Zavarli Art, I aim to challenge the perception that mental health stories must be dark or heavy; instead, I blend vibrant colours and dynamic forms to uplift the spirit.
All of my work comes from lived experience of being a mental health patient. My art journey began when I started attending art therapy classes as apart of my recovery from a mental health incident that took place a few years ago. I'm still currently doing art therapy and I am shining a light on mental wellness and aspiring to play my role in eliminating the stigma that surrounds mental health.
Each piece I create is a journey of resilience, hope, and healing, infused with the colours and patterns that reflect the brighter possibilities of mental well-being. Through my art, I hope to inspire, connect, and shed light on mental health in a way that resonates and empowers.