Skrimms: The Mask That Speaks

How a fictional character became a reflection of real pain—and real growth.

Over time, I’ve been shaping a character named “Skrimms”—not just for fun, but as a way to process some of the heaviest moments in my life. These recent artworks are part of that journey, capturing what it feels like to wear pain like a second skin, and more importantly, to eventually take that skin off.

“Skrimms” wears different masks: a ram skull, a gas mask—symbols of what I’ve been through. The gas mask version reflects my past tied to rebellion and vandalism. It’s rough, gritty, and dark. But it’s also fictional, a way for me to channel negative emotions like heartbreak, losing friends, family struggles, my dog passing away, and the fear of failure.

"Bad Ego"

The character evolved into something more personal: a visual representation of emotional chaos. The pain that used to weigh me down now fuels my creativity. And that’s the message behind “Skrimms” negativity is not forever. It’s just a mask. And masks can come off.

In the first piece, “Skrimms” sits with his head in his hand, exhausted but still there. That quiet moment represents how we all carry weight sometimes, but we survive. The second piece shows two versions of him back to back, surrounded by space, stars, and checkers—a surreal world that represents inner duality. It’s a visual conversation between who I was and who I’m becoming.

Creating Skrimms has helped me get through manic episodes, isolation, and deep sadness. But more than that, it’s helped me connect. I’ve seen others relate to him, and that makes me feel like I’m doing something meaningful. He’s a piece of me—but he’s also becoming a symbol for anyone dealing with their own version of darkness.

“Skrimms” is growing. So am I.And if he helps someone else along the way, then that’s the real win.