“Being strong was never optional” - Lisa Oxley Curative Collective Team

This page speaks deeply of resilience, survival, and inner strength. The quotes “Rise, fall, rise again” and “Being strong was never optional” create a powerful narrative of someone who has endured hardship yet continues to stand. The central figure, with her cracked porcelain-like face and solemn gaze, symbolizes emotional wounds, healing, and the quiet strength carried after difficult seasons.

Colour Palette

* Rich blues, teal, purple, and magenta dominate the background, bringing mood, depth, and emotion.

* Black grounds the page with shadow, contrast, and intensity.

* White space gives breathing room and highlights the vulnerability of the portrait.

* Bright green leaves at the base add a subtle symbol of renewal and growth.

Focal Point

* The young female portrait is the heart of the page.

* Her large blue eyes instantly draw attention and create emotional connection.

* The cracked texture across her face suggests damage, trauma, or pressure—but she remains whole and standing.

Mixed Media Techniques

* Layered paint application with bold brush strokes and blended colour transitions.

* Loose scribble thread-like lines create emotional chaos and tension.

* Script stamping/background writing adds depth and story fragments.

* White splatter marks resemble stars, tears, or fragments of hope.

* Collaged sentiment strips anchor the message clearly.

Composition

* Portrait placed slightly right of centre balances the heavy textured colour mass on the left.

* Quotes positioned diagonally opposite each other create visual movement.

* Scribble textures at top and bottom frame the figure, almost like emotions swirling around her.

Symbolism

* Cracks = wounds, pressure, past pain.

* Leaves = healing, new life, regrowth.

* Dark clothing = protection, seriousness, carrying burdens.

* Bright background colour bursts = hope still exists even in darkness.

 Overall Feel

This page feels raw, brave, and honest. It’s a visual reminder that strength is often born from struggle, and even when cracked, we can still be beautiful, powerful, and unbroken.