About Me

 

 

Welcome to Mad Cat Planet, the passion project of Abanna Singleton Cheshire - Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist (PRSS), Certified Behavioral Health Case Manager (BHCM-I) and Certified Wellness Coach. I'm a self-proclaimed Mental Health Warrior and Hope Dealer due to my own history of mental illness and substance abuse, the battles I've waged to recover, and the work I do now. 

ARTISTIC JOURNEY

My journey as an artist began in earnest during my recovery from mental illness and substance abuse. I began treatment in 2013 after 24 years of struggle with major depressive disorder, general anxiety disorder, panic disorder and PTSD. I sought treatment at Red Rock BHS in Oklahoma City and there I immersed myself in the world of recovery by going to 3 support groups a week, seeing my case manager weekly, and I was paired with a really great therapist. I also utilized the help of their medication clinic to find the right non-narcotic mental health medications to further stabilize myself. During my recovery, I started feeding my creative side as a way to cope with my depression and anxiety. I eventually discovered neurographic painting and suddenly, after years of darkness, my mind became a world of color and joyful chaos. Over time, my art evolved. I began adding "hidden" images to my paintings and playing with bold colors that are a reflection of the joy I have found.
My works are odes to color, recovery culture and my ethnic roots, embracing a more nuanced and layered approach. My paintings are a harmonious blend of geometric precision and organic fluidity, creating a visual symphony that resonates with viewers on a deeply personal level. Each piece is an exploration of form, color, and texture, inviting the audience to find their own meaning within the abstract compositions.

PHILOSOPHY AND INSPIRATION

I believe that art is a universal language that transcends words and connects us to our innermost emotions. My work is a reflection of my belief in the power of art to convey new and complex ideas and feelings. I draw inspiration from a diverse range of sources, including nature, music, and the human experience, weaving these elements into my paintings to create a rich tapestry of visual storytelling. My work is inspired by my recovery story and the communities I have become a part of during my recovery journey. My style can vary, but the love is always there. My ecstatic use of color and culture is food for the eyes and the soul.