Holding On

Life’s challenges can elicit a surge of emotions. Suppressing them can be detrimental. Yet, it is essential to find a genuine and therapeutic means of expressing these sentiments. Meet Ryan Altounji, a Syrian illustrator and animator, who stumbled upon the life-altering potential of art amidst a period of great upheaval.

More: Ryan Altounji, Instagram h/t: boredpanda

The Little Things

In 2021, Ryan was confronted with a distressing choice due to the ongoing turmoil in Syria. He had to leave his home country to avoid a seven-year compulsory military service that would hinder his promising career. Moreover, visa issues prevented him from promptly joining his wife, who had to relocate to Dubai before him.

Exhausted

In the midst of an emotional rollercoaster, Ryan experienced a range of intense feelings: anxiety, hopelessness, and even suicidal thoughts. Desperately seeking solace, he embarked on a therapeutic endeavor aptly titled “Journey of Emotions.”

Detached

This art project went beyond canvas drawings. Each illustration served as a window into Ryan’s soul, reflecting his mental state at the time. Some depicted his deep connection with his wife, showing how she was his guiding light in the midst of overwhelming darkness. Others revealed the pain of their separation, such as the artwork portraying his character’s hands cracking while holding a light, symbolizing the agonizing moment of his wife’s departure.

Trapped

Amidst chaos, there is hope. The series concludes with an artwork where his character, despite free-falling into uncertainty, experiences a peculiar sense of satisfaction.

Falling

Confined

Bliss

Loved

Drained

Time

Anxious

Self-Reflection

Frustration

Heavy

Everything Will Be Alright

Lost At Sea

Obsessed

Ego

Frozen

Weight