So where did Sydney come from?

Introduction: Hello, I’m Nicolette Worth, but you might know me as Sydney the Artist. Today, I want to share more than just my art; I want to share my story. It's a tale of creativity, struggle, resilience, and discovery. I hope that by opening up about my journey, I can connect with you on a deeper level—whether you're a fellow artist, someone navigating similar challenges, or simply here to learn more about the person behind the art.

Early Life and Challenges: Born and raised in Sydney, creativity was part of my DNA, thanks to my parents' roots in the film industry. However, my childhood was not without its trials. From a young age, I faced mental health challenges, bullying due to my red hair (lame I know right?), and extreme sensitivities to food and textures, which people did not understand and assumed I was being a brat and overly sensitive (I know I had them now due to being on the spectrum). These experiences shaped me, and I often found solace in creativity, using art to cope with and express my emotions.

Facing Darkness in My Teenage Years: My teenage years marked some of the darkest days of my life. I found myself grappling with deepening mental health issues. Overwhelmed and unable to cope, I dropped out of school and turned to drugs and alcohol as an escape. It was a time filled with despair, and honestly, I didn’t see a future for myself. I felt utterly alone and misunderstood, with no real help or support. Medical professionals, including psychiatrists, seemed just out of reach, either unable or unwilling to provide the diagnosis or help I desperately needed.

This period was my lowest point, where I genuinely feared I might not make it through. Yet, it was also a pivotal moment that forced me to confront my struggles head-on. I had to learn from these experiences, to understand that I needed change and that recovery was both necessary and possible. This phase of profound hardship was crucial in teaching me resilience and the importance of seeking help, setting the stage for the gradual rebuilding of my life in Cairns.

Moving to Cairns and Rediscovering Myself: At 17, a move to Cairns marked a new chapter. Here, I enrolled in TAFE and began a diploma in visual arts, which was pivotal in regaining my confidence. It was also where I acquired the nickname 'Sydney,' a nod to my roots, which I embraced as my professional marker, Sydney the Artist. As I navigated my course, I not only found my artistic style but also a community that supported and nurtured my growth. In Cairns, I also found a psychiatrist who was able to properly diagnose me and I finally had a true understanding of what I was experiencing and who I was. Panic Disorder, Anxiety Disorder, Depression & OCD.

Academic and Overseas Endeavors: My journey didn't stop there. I pursued a Bachelor of Creative Industries and had the incredible opportunity to study abroad in North Carolina. This experience broadened my horizons, delving into hip-hop, art and design, and African-American history, and proved to me that I could overcome the insecurities that once held me back.

Professional Life and Moving Abroad: Fueled by newfound confidence, I moved to Melbourne to study graphic design, then to New York, where I launched a fashion line and worked as a designer. These years were filled with creativity and success, shaping my skills and professional ethos.

Returning Home and Focusing on Well-being: Eventually, I returned to Cairns and opened my own studio. This period of my life has been about more than art; it’s been about understanding and addressing my mental health and chronic pain. Living with these conditions has opened my eyes to the importance of awareness and education around disability and mental health, especially within the creative community. In Cairns, I furthered my diagnosis and learned of my ADHD, Fibromyalgia & Borderline Personality Disorder. (with other linked disorders such as IBS, TMJ, Interstitial cystitis, Dysphagia, Vaginismus

Conclusion: Through sharing my story, I hope to offer both insight and inspiration. If you've struggled, know you're not alone. If you're seeking your path, know that it’s okay to be a work in progress. I’ve learned that every challenge and every triumph is a brushstroke in the bigger picture of our lives.

Thank you for taking the time to connect with my story. I believe that by being open about our journeys, we can foster understanding and support each other in ways we never thought possible.