Kelsey F.

Artist Bio

Kelsey Filosi is a neurodivergent Art Therapy student and will graduate in June 2025. Kelsey lives in Tillamook County, Oregon with their partner, dog, and three cats. They enjoy Dungeons and Dragons, playing Xbox, crafting with friends, and watching animated series.

Artist Statement

This collection of art is an expression of my reflective and aspirational processing throughout internship and the Art Therapy program.

One arm is soft, movable and ready to adjust based on your needs. The firm clay hand is always steady, reaching out to you when you need it.

Each mask symbolizes internal and external experiences I have encountered as an autistic future Art Therapist. The masks express masking or mirroring others while keeping personal opinions out of the professional space, keeping hold of my happy place in the face of vicarious trauma, maintaining a happy exterior when personal feelings are sad, and being an active listener with a reminder of what that means through song lyrics.

The cage is a safe refuge for my heart.

Feel free to touch the heart, crocheted hand or place the masks on the face.

Each mask symbolizes internal and external experiences I have encountered as an autistic future Art Therapist. Each mask symbolizes internal and external experiences I have encountered as an autistic future Art Therapist.
Credit: Kelsey F.