Rosa Hunt

Artist Bio

Health Educator (Mental Health)
Student Health and Counseling Services
Student Affairs

I earned my M.A. in Psychological Science from CSUSM in 2020 where I researched social cognitive development. I returned to CSUSM as a mental health educator in April 2023. I’m passionate about the mental health experiences of 1^st generation college students, the relationship between anxiety and depression, and grounding techniques. I love connecting with and collaborating with students and helping them plan events and educational materials about the mental health topics they are passionate about.

Inspired by my older brother, I have enjoyed drawing since I was a child. My mom used to bring home paper pads from her serving job at Denny’s so I could illustrate and write comics. I also remember my drawings being inspired by my dad’s tattoos.

Drawing is one way I have reclaimed my joy in life. My illustrations are guided by “little me”. It’s been a way to attend to and give a voice to my childhood self. Sometimes, my art is used to just simply and clearly state, that yes, some parts of living are confusing and can feel dark. My art often depicts a much-needed response to this concern—characters who have the power to care for and hold a shaken-up creature, gals and homegirls who are just caught up in the undeniable joys life has to offer, and images that uphold the happiness that can be found in simple, everyday activities. My illustrations are influenced by play, children’s literature, the cartoons I grew up with, and the emotions I feel and work through while I create. In addition to the different characters often centered in my work, I like to incorporate stars, clouds, and ghosts. My husband, Arturo, encourages me often to draw when I can (a big thank you to you ‘turo).

Artwork by Rosa Hunt

 

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