Artist Profile: Ananya Rao-Middleton

Ananya Rao-Middleton is a disabled illustrator and activist who survived a traumatic brain injury and is currently living with multiple sclerosis and several other hidden disabilities. Through her artwork she hopes to create a sense of validation and belonging by reflecting the lived experiences of disabled people.

Ananya Rao-Middleton 

Lisbon, Portugal

Favorite bird?

Blackbird.

What do you seek to communicate in your work?

I use my artwork as a tool to speak truth to the experiences of people living at the intersection of disability, race and gender.

How has nature been a source of inspiration for you?

Nature and drawing nature helped to heal me while I was recovering from my traumatic brain injury. I find nature grounding and comforting as well as being a source of inspiration to draw and paint!

Tell us about your most memorable bird experience.

I was visiting family in Bangalore, India. My cousin lives in a high rise apartment and I remember watching this huge eagles fly so close to her balcony. It was amazing!

See more of Ananya's work at www.ananyapaints.com

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