I am Sheila, author of Black Girl, Broken Mirror and artist and founder of Sincerely Sheila, where I create lifelike dolls designed to inspire, educate, and promote inclusivity. My work has gained recognition for its unique ability to bridge art, healthcare, and community representation.
My journey took a transformative turn following a head injury, which led to the development of Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD). Channelling my resilience into my art, I found solace and self-acceptance by focusing on painting dark-skinned Black baby dolls with Afro hair—a poignant representation of my own identity. This deeply personal connection to my work has blossomed into the Neonatal Nurturers series, a collection of dolls designed to serve as therapeutic tools in workshops, offering comfort and sparking conversations around self-love and healing.
My book, Black Girl, Broken Mirror, delves into my lived experience with BDD, exploring the intersection of beauty standards, mental health, and self-perception within the African Caribbean community. Through my story, I aim to break the silence surrounding BDD, offering tools, strategies, and affirmations to empower those on their own healing journeys.
Website www.sincerelysheila.co.ukhttps://www.instagram.com/iamsincerelysheila?igsh=a2Ftc3R4ejR2bWN4
