Andrew Conway-Hyde on the Impact of PTSD on His Art and Daily Life

Critic: Good afternoon, Andrew! It’s a privilege to be here discussing your journey with PTSD and how it has profoundly influenced your art and daily life.

Andrew Conway-Hyde: Good afternoon! I appreciate the opportunity to share my experiences and how they intertwine with my artistic practice.

Critic: Let’s begin with your experience of PTSD since 1999. How has this condition shaped your perspective on chaos and order in your work?

Andrew Conway-Hyde: Living with PTSD has introduced a constant interplay between chaos and order in both my life and my art. The chaotic elements of my experience often seep into my daily life, creating feelings of unpredictability and turmoil. In contrast, my art becomes a space where I seek to impose order—through colour, form, and composition. This struggle reflects my journey toward understanding and acceptance of my limitations.

Critic: That’s a powerful way to channel your experiences. How do you express this tension between chaos and order within your abstract art?

Andrew Conway-Hyde: I often use contrasting elements in my work to represent this dynamic. For example, I might layer chaotic brush strokes or splashes of colour alongside more structured geometric forms. This juxtaposition symbolises the constant balancing act I face—acknowledging the chaos while striving for moments of clarity and order. It’s a visual interpretation of my internal struggle.

Critic: I can see how that would create a profound emotional impact. How has your understanding of acceptance influenced your artistic process?

Andrew Conway-Hyde: Acceptance has become a crucial aspect of my journey. Over the years, I’ve learned that embracing my limitations allows me to transform chaos into something meaningful. In my art, I strive to express this acceptance by incorporating elements that may initially seem disordered or chaotic yet come together to form a cohesive piece. This process serves as a reminder that beauty can arise from struggle.

Critic: That’s a beautiful sentiment. Can you describe a specific piece that exemplifies this exploration of chaos, order, and acceptance?

Andrew Conway-Hyde: One piece that resonates with this theme is titled “Embracing the Storm.” In this work, I’ve layered turbulent brush strokes and vibrant colours, representing the chaos of my experience with PTSD. Interspersed within the chaos are structured lines and calmer hues that symbolise moments of clarity and acceptance. The interplay between these elements invites viewers to reflect on their own experiences with struggle and healing.

Critic: “Embracing the Storm” sounds deeply moving! How do you hope viewers engage with the themes of chaos and acceptance in your work?

Andrew Conway-Hyde: I hope they find a sense of connection and understanding in the complexity of the pieces. My goal is for viewers to recognise that chaos is an inherent part of life, and through acceptance, we can find beauty and meaning even in our struggles. I want my art to serve as a catalyst for reflection, encouraging others to embrace their own journeys.

Critic: That’s a powerful intention. In what ways do you find art serving as a motivation and a coping mechanism for you in your daily life?

Andrew Conway-Hyde: Art acts as both a refuge and a motivator. When I create, I immerse myself in the process, allowing my feelings and experiences to flow onto the canvas. This act of creation transforms anxiety and turmoil into something tangible and expressive. It provides me with a sense of purpose and control, offering a way to navigate the complexities of my emotions.

Critic: That’s inspiring! How do you see your journey with PTSD influencing the broader conversation about mental health in the art community?

Andrew Conway-Hyde: I believe that sharing my experiences can help destigmatise mental health challenges in the art community. Art has the power to foster connection and understanding, and by speaking openly about my journey, I hope to encourage others to explore their own stories through creative expression. It’s a reminder that we are not alone in our struggles and that art can be a powerful tool for healing.

Critic: Thank you, Andrew! This has been a deeply insightful conversation about your experiences with PTSD and how they shape your art and life. I look forward to seeing how your exploration of chaos and order continues to evolve.

Andrew Conway-Hyde: Thank you!