artist statement

In the realm of creativity and expression, Azariah Zai (she/they), also known as abirdthatswims™, emerges as a multifaceted artist, seamlessly navigating the worlds of writing, painting, graphic design, and illustration. Born as Raven J. Poole, Azariah challenges the society’s norms and perceptions by embracing a fluid identity that transcends any limitations of labels.

As an artist, she is not confined by conventional definitions. Instead, the artist's journey is a true testimony to the profound connection between identity, imagination, and lived experiences. In the eyes of the society constructs, they are a mere being from the planet Earth temporarily inhabiting a human body. However, this description is only a superficial attempt to categorize the boundless spirit within.

All while facing the challenges posed by mental health, she has embarked on a courageous journey as she navigates through the business of mental health that has dismissed her experiences as a complex product of imagination, but within her uniqueness, she still manages to find solace and meaning all while embracing a belief in God even in the middle of chaos, she winks at the irony of being labeled a psychosis episode, and finding salvation in the truth that Yeshua truly saves.

Their art is a raw reflection of this complex journey. Each piece is a fragment of the puzzle, a hopeful vessel striving to spread peace, love, and joy in a world that hungers
for genuine connection. It’s the essence of their work that lies in being a true definition of authentic expression as they remain a representation of hope.

abirdthatswims™ invites you to embark on this journey through her lenses; as she strives to connect with the hearts and minds while leaving a one-of-a-kind mark that surpasses any labels and speaks to the universal language of the human experience.

welcome to the journey

**but warning: this ride is a rollercoaster

have fun!
love always,

- abirdthatswims™