Art as Coping: Tristan Buttigieg Discusses Creativity and Resilience, Plus Spoken Word on Identity, Grief, and Discipline
Download MP3This program features spoken word poetry and discussions regarding the intersection of artistic expression and mental health.
Guest Spotlight
Donavan LeDean interviews Tristan Buttigieg, a self-taught multidisciplinary artist, about his journey through music and poetry. Tristan discusses his early influences, including Jimi Hendrix and Bob Dylan, and how he developed a gritty writing style. He shares how managing type one diabetes and facing bullying served as catalysts for using art as a coping mechanism. Tristan highlights his current creative projects:
- The published books Have Nine Lives and Perlesk.
- An upcoming third poetry collection tentatively titled Va Va Voom.
- A debut music album currently in progress.
Artistic Expressions
The program transitions into a series of spoken word performances focused on various themes of resilience and identity. Acamea Deadwiler presents an excerpt from her memoir, Daddy's Little Stranger, explaining the importance of distinguishing between a person's "situation" (the facts) and their "story" (the meaning) to avoid stigmatizing mental health struggles. Other featured poets include:
- Joshua Gray, who performs a piece about the drive to conquer and succeed.
- Mei-Mei Mijares, who shares a song regarding emotional vulnerability and healing.
- Alaina Noelle, who uses the metaphor of a dishwasher to explore themes of fitting in and pressure.
- Protected Poet, who discusses the complexities of grief and legal struggles within a family.
- The Unknown Odist, who delivers a poem regarding the unpredictable nature of life.
Concluding Thoughts
Donavan LeDean closes the session with a message on the necessity of discipline and poise when making life decisions. He encourages listeners to analyze whether new interests are beneficial or detrimental before committing to them.
