Leo Ogier

After struggling with depression and receiving an autism diagnosis three years ago, 16-year-old Leo decided to give spray painting a go as a way to channel his emotions. He found that it distracted him from his anxieties and so he began to dedicate more of his time to art, later picking up acrylic painting. 
Leo now paints every day and has started his own art business, Leo Ogier Art. 
‘Leo has found a purpose,’ said his nominator, who wishes to remain anonymous. ‘He wants people to know that diagnosis is not the end of the world and that it’s important to keep going.’ 
Leo said: ‘The message I try to send with my art is to focus on something you love and be creative. That’s how I’ve kept alive. 
He has been commissioned to do paintings for clients locally and overseas. ‘It’s been an amazing journey,’ he said. 
‘Doing Seafront Sunday, having my art on people’s walls, and seeing it shared on Facebook. It’s great to see other people happy with my art.’ 
Leo is currently working on his biggest paintings to date, featuring a phoenix rising from the ashes, as he continues to battle to improve his mental health.