PORTRAIT
In today’s Journal, meet Sheralee, our muse.
Sheralee is a beautiful German Filipino model and a self described vagabond tattoo artist.
This is a very honest and vulnerable conversation where Sheralee shares with us her struggles with being bullied at school, eating disorders, falling in love with her best friend and how much therapy has helped break up destructive patterns.
INTERVIEW
Q: Can you tell us about your journey into tattooing and modeling?
A: Sure! I started tattooing on myself and eventually branched out to tattooing friends and even strangers. It’s been an incredible journey to see the trust people place in me to create something permanent on their bodies. As for modeling, it wasn’t something I initially pursued, but I’ve found it to be a powerful platform for challenging societal norms and perceptions of beauty.
Q: You mentioned the significance of hand tattoos. Could you elaborate on that?
A: Absolutely. Hand tattoos hold a special meaning for me because they represent a level of trust and honor that clients bestow upon me. It’s a privilege to tattoo someone’s hands, as they’re one of the most visible parts of the body. Plus, I love the individual connections I make with each person through the tattooing process.
Q: Can you share your experience of living in Berlin and how it contrasts with your upbringing in a small village?
A: Moving to Berlin was a transformative experience for me. Coming from a small village where diversity was lacking, Berlin offered a sense of connection and inclusivity that I hadn’t experienced before. However, despite the vibrant atmosphere, I still struggle with feelings of loneliness and body image issues.
Q: You’ve been open about your struggles with body image and eating disorders. How have you navigated these challenges?
A: It’s been a journey of self-discovery and acceptance. Therapy has played a crucial role in helping me recognize and break harmful patterns. I’ve also learned the importance of self-compassion and understanding the root causes of my struggles. Normalizing emotions and seeking support from loved ones has been instrumental in navigating through these challenges.
Q: What advice would you give to others struggling with similar issues?
A: I would encourage anyone facing similar challenges to seek help and support. It’s important to remember that you’re not alone in your struggles and that there is hope for healing and growth. Remember to be kind to yourself and prioritize your mental and emotional well-being above all else.
Q: Lastly, how do you express your personal style, and what message do you hope to convey through your fashion choices?
A: I love to express my personal style through comfortable, chic looks that reflect my inner confidence. Despite my body dysmorphia, I find empowerment in embracing who I am and celebrating my uniqueness. My fashion choices are a reflection of that journey towards self-acceptance and authenticity.
Sheralee’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, self-discovery, and authenticity. Through her experiences as a tattoo artist, model, and advocate for mental health, she has navigated through challenges with courage and grace. From challenging societal norms to overcoming personal struggles, Sheralee’s story reminds us of the importance of embracing our uniqueness and finding strength in vulnerability. As she continues to inspire others with her story, Sheralee’s message of self-acceptance and self-love resonates deeply, reminding us all to prioritize our mental and emotional well-being on the journey towards self-discovery.