My name is Jodi Ivester, and I was raised in Iowa. I’ve been married for 26 years and am a mother of three and a grandmother of five. Therapy using the arts was never presented to me as an option to treat Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

I spent a long time, 40 years, trying talk therapy to help with my anxiety, but it didn’t work for me—it actually made me feel more anxious. I understand that seeing a counselor or psychologist can help others, but when it comes to my severe PTSD, talking about it did not make me feel better. Instead, it got worse. I had to accept that my trauma couldn’t be completely healed and focus on finding ways to reduce my anxiety.

As an artist grappling with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), my journey toward healing led me beyond conventional therapies. As I began to sketch, it became a vital outlet for managing my intense anxiety. It wasn’t long before I uncovered the profound impact of art on my well-being. Transitioning to painting, I embarked on a voyage of self-discovery and unearthed a fervent passion for artistic expression. Through my experiences, I aspire to convey to others that the aftermath of trauma can unveil unexpected splendor. My artwork is a reflection of the enchanting beauty I’ve embraced amidst my struggles. Each brushstroke is a deliberate attempt to retrain my mind to appreciate the world’s inherent wonders.

Thank you visiting my gallery. Enjoy my art.

I’m turning trauma into beauty.