Generations of Education: A Story of Persistence and Challenges

Yaqeen Abdul Rahman, a 25-year-old master’s student in Women’s Studies, is a passionate advocate for human rights, with a particular focus on minority rights. She participated in the Art Lab workshop, recognizing that art serves as a powerful language to express issues and amplify voices, especially for those who cannot speak for themselves. 

Yaqeen’s project, titled “Me and the Opposite,” delved into the daily life of someone living with bipolar disorder. Having received a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, Yaqeen embarked on a deeply personal exploration of her own experiences and those of others who grapple with mental health challenges. 

The project’s title, “Me and the Opposite,” symbolizes the intense emotional oscillations that individuals with bipolar disorder experience, swinging between moments of sheer happiness and profound despair. Yaqeen’s art aimed to capture the complexity of this journey and convey the challenges and triumphs that come with it. 

Through her lens, Yaqeen explored the intersection of personal and public spaces in the lives of those with mental disorders. She pondered the societal stigma that often surrounds mental health issues and how individuals interact with a world that may not fully understand their struggles. 

In her project, Yaqeen aimed to challenge stereotypes and misconceptions about bipolar disorder. She recognized that society often views those with mental health conditions through a narrow lens, and she sought to expand that perspective. Her photographs and art pieces provided a glimpse into the lived experiences of individuals with bipolar disorder, allowing viewers to connect with their stories on a profound level. 

Yaqeen’s art also carried a message of hope and solidarity. She wanted to assure those living with mental disorders that they are not alone in their journey. Through her project, she sought to create a sense of community and understanding, emphasizing that the stories of individuals with mental health challenges deserve to be told and heard. 

“Me and the Opposite” was not just a project; it was a powerful expression of empathy, a call for acceptance, and a reminder that every individual, regardless of their mental health status, deserves respect, understanding, and support. Yaqeen Abdul Rahman’s art illuminated the importance of mental health awareness and advocated for a world where everyone’s voice is heard, and no one feels alone in their struggles.