We had the good fortune of connecting with Nikki Hune and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Nikki, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I pursued an artistic career because the arts serve as a complementary part of my own mental health recovery. To help cope with depression, I continually create art and music. For example, the photo of me playing guitar in a power ranger suit makes me laugh and helps me focus on fun things in life. I hope to encourage others who suffer from mental health conditions, letting them know that creativity can be an avenue of support for health and wellness.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is a part of my mental health journey. I got where I am today by never giving up hope. Life has ups and downs, but resiliency is what has carried me through the more difficult times. I have learned that dreams can come true if we have the proper guidance, support and resources. When facing adversity, we can’t give up on pursuing our dreams. If we need help, reach out – just don’t give up.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my friend were visiting Houston, I would take them to places that fostered creativity and happiness. I would show them the Houston art culture, and introduce them to local coffee shops and restaurants. Anywhere that has a positive atmosphere would be included in the itinerary.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
What it’s Like Project (WiLP) is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) dedicated to reducing mental health stigma through art, education and community advocacy. WiLP was established shortly after my world fell apart and I attempted suicide. The support I have received from our WiLP community has been critical for my own mental health journey. It is my hope, as the founder of WiLP, that we have also shared our support and encouragement to others suffering with mental health conditions. Life can be extremely isolating in our current times of social distancing, especially for those struggling with their mental health. We need each other. Mental health conditions do not occur in a vacuum, and neither does mental health recovery. Stay hopeful and creative. Reach out if you need to, we don’t have to do this alone.

Website: whatitslikeproject.org
Instagram: @whatitslikeproject @nikkihune
Facebook: @whatitslikeproject

Image Credits
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Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.