Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Rodriguez
Hi Stephanie, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I was born and raised on the enchanting island of Corfu, Greece, a place characterized by its stunning landscapes and a tight-knit community. With a modest population, the island exudes a sense of tranquility that allowed me to grow up surrounded by nature’s beauty. The lush greenery, azure waters, and vibrant flora were not just backdrops to my childhood; they were integral to my experiences and adventures. Growing up in such a nurturing environment fostered a loving childhood filled with rich traditions and familial warmth. My mother welcomed my sister and me into the world when she was just 24 years old. This youthful energy contributed to a bond that felt vibrant and alive. Our home was always alive with the sounds of laughter, music, and the delightful aromas of homemade meals—each dish telling its own story steeped in Greek culinary tradition. One of my most cherished memories is of sitting on the steps of our yard with my mother. She would often sing to me—a melodic thread weaving through our daily lives—filling our home with joy. Her songs were more than mere entertainment; they were expressions of love and creativity. On one particularly memorable occasion, she wrote a heartfelt poem about me that I still treasure today. This poem symbolizes not only her affection but also her desire to capture fleeting moments of joy in words. My father played an equally significant role in shaping my childhood. We share a special bond marked by humor and understanding. I often tease him by claiming to be his favorite child—a lighthearted jest that reflects our playful relationship. However, beneath this banter lies a profound connection; we have an unspoken understanding that transcends words. His wisdom and guidance have been cornerstones in my life, helping me navigate challenges while encouraging my aspirations.
From a young age, my mother instilled in me the belief that I could achieve greater things beyond the confines of our island home. Her encouragement became a guiding light, motivating me to seek opportunities that would allow me to grow and flourish. At the age of 15, I took a significant step in my journey by moving to the United Kingdom, where I enrolled in Hurtwood House School, a prestigious boarding institution known for its creative and supportive environment. Upon arriving at Hurtwood House, I found myself in a nurturing setting that celebrated individuality and creativity. It was here that I felt truly seen for the first time—an environment where self-expression was not only accepted but encouraged. This newfound freedom coincided with a pivotal moment in my life: I came out as queer. I began to develop my own personal style, experimenting with fashion and self-presentation in ways that had previously felt inaccessible.
Moreover, the educational approach at Hurtwood House was markedly different from what I had experienced back home. The curriculum emphasized critical thinking, creativity, and emotional intelligence—elements often overlooked in traditional schooling systems. This progressive education not only expanded my knowledge but also ignited a passion for learning that I had not fully realized before. However, the transition was not without its challenges. Being away from my family brought about feelings of loneliness and homesickness, which were compounded by the emotional turmoil I was beginning to experience. During this period, I started facing serious symptoms of depression and mental illness—issues that took me several years to understand and address. It was a difficult journey of self-discovery, marked by moments of struggle and resilience.
When i gratuaded high school I moved to Los Angeles with the hopes of becoming an actress, later on realizing that was not the career path for me.In this period of introspection, I discovered painting—a medium that allowed me to articulate my innermost thoughts and emotions in ways that acting never could. Through the brush strokes and colors, I found a profound sense of belonging and connection to myself. Art became not just a hobby but a lifeline; it provided me with a sanctuary where I could explore the complexities of my mental health journey.
Mental health is often stigmatized, yet it is an integral part of our collective human experience. Throughout my adulthood, I have faced significant challenges related to mental health, including depression and a personality disorder. These experiences have shaped my artistic voice, guiding me to create pieces that delve into themes of hallucinations, emotional turmoil, and the broader implications of living with mental illness.
My art serves multiple purposes: it is a form of catharsis for me, allowing for the expression of feelings that are often difficult to verbalize. It is also an invitation for others to engage in conversations about mental health—conversations that are too often hushed or avoided altogether. By sharing my journey through visual storytelling, I hope to convey a message of solidarity: that there is hope and you are not alone. Each piece I create is imbued with the hope that viewers will find comfort in knowing that there is no shame in confronting mental health challenges.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Being diagnosed with a severe mental illness, particularly one that carries significant stigma, has undeniably shaped my journey toward seeking help. When I received my diagnosis of Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), it was a moment of profound clarity for me. I finally had a name for the turmoil I had been experiencing, yet it also came with a heavy weight of shame and confusion. The stigma surrounding BPD is pervasive, and I often found myself feeling further isolated by the attitudes of even some therapists in the field. Their perceptions sometimes mirrored societal stereotypes, which only exacerbated my feelings of inadequacy and despair. It was disheartening to encounter professionals who seemed to perpetuate the very stigma I was grappling with. In those moments, I felt shut down and invalidated, as if my struggles were dismissed rather than understood. Through my journey, I learned that individuals diagnosed with BPD can indeed stop meeting the criteria over time—especially when engaging in evidence-based therapies like Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). DBT has been transformative for me; it equips individuals with skills to manage emotions, improve relationships, and cultivate a sense of self-worth. As I navigated through the ups and downs of my mental health journey, I encountered some of the most remarkable people—both fellow travelers on this path and dedicated therapists who have supported me every step of the way. Their unwavering support has been instrumental in my progress. I often reflect on how grateful I am for their guidance; without them, I genuinely fear I would not be where I am today.Now, as I stand at this point in my life, I take pride in raising awareness about mental health issues. Sharing my story helps to challenge the stigma that surrounds conditions like BPD and encourages others to seek help without fear or shame. My hope is that by opening up conversations about mental health, we can foster understanding and compassion for those who struggle.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
My art is a reflection of my brain. I love combining media together.
My abstract style is very unique to me. One of my favourite touches is the countless amount of text hidden within each of my paintings.
I go by the name GHOST GIRL as my artist name
I also work on clothes.
What was your favorite childhood memory?
included in first answer
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tiktok.com/@faidra23k?_t=8akz0Yf7mJK&_r=1
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/faidra23k/
