Ashley: Escape

A photo of the sunset and ocean, with Melbourne city in the disctance

Beach looking to city by Ashley [photograph]

This is about escaping the situation, going out in nature or a shopping centre or library to get a sense of safety and emotional regulation in the moment. I felt like it was the only thing that kept me grounded enough so that I didn’t end up in hospital. This was about being in the moment as well, especially in nature. I felt like everything was falling apart, but at least I had control over where I went during the day outside of trying to access services or find private rentals.

Photo of Ashley's ipad, an illustration she has made is on the screen. The illustration has wooden houses above the clouds Illustration by Ashley

Art and animation has always been a part of my life. It provides a way to process what’s happening or it lets me escape the situation I’m in. This was so important to me feeling safe and got me through some hard times in the last 5-6 years. Without it, I’d feel aimless.

A photograph of a white car on a road by a tree and field

Photograph by Ashley

The car provided stability and escape. We [my sibling and I ] were able to leave when things were bad or when we were struggling to stay in our situation. Being able to sit for however long we needed in the car, or leave to a library or park. The car allowed me to have a break from what I was experiencing, especially when I was on my own. Looking at this photo feels sentimental, while also making me feel safe at what it meant to have the car during some of my worst experiences. The photo is taken at my sister’s house across the road. I would use my car to escape there over the weekends and I still do. My situation has improved, but I could end up the same situation again.