Art Inspired by Living with Crohn’s Disease & Ulcerative Colitis: A Deep Dive into Personal Experiences

Living with Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis has profoundly shaped my life and art. While my work delves into broader aspects of the human condition, the pieces featured on this page are a sampling of works that delve deeper into specific, personal experiences of the emotional and physical challenges of living with chronic illness. Each artwork captures moments of struggle, resilience, and the complex interplay between body and mind as I navigate life with these diseases. Through vibrant colors and evocative imagery, I aim to shed light on the often unseen aspects of living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), offering a window into the realities that many endure in silence. You can find more work about my experience with IBD, trauma and chronic illness inn my Opening Up, Permission To Enter and Color collections and on my instagram

For those seeking personalized support, I also offer one-on-one personal guidance. Drawing from my experiences and deep understanding of living with chronic illness, I provide tailored advice and strategies to help others navigate their own health journeys. Whether you are an artist, a patient, or a caregiver, I’m here to help you find strength and creativity in the face of adversity.

The-Boulder-by-Daniel-Leighton
Hope-Beyond-The-Mountain-by-Daniel-Leighton
Choked-Up-by-Daniel-Leighton
Here-Comes-The-Flood-by-Daniel-Leighton
Tied Up At The Hospital
Nauseous By The Toilet
First Surgery
This Is Not My Life/Funeral For A Friend
War Inside My Body
Shame!
There's a Place Where We Belong
This Is You, This Is Normal
Not Another Inch
Pain Points
Opening Up

IBD Related Interviews and Media

Learn more about my journey and experiences with Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis

Media

About IBD Podcast


Gut Matters podcast
Listen on: Apple | Spotify
In this episode, I delve into the challenges and insights gained from living with these conditions, and how they have influenced my art and life.

My Chronic Life – 3-Part Mini-Doc
Part 1: Being Conscious Is the Key to Living His Best Crohn’s Life
This Crohn’s warrior works to make sure his daily activities serve the needs of his body and his mind.
Daniel Leighton has worked hard to cope with the effects of his disease, including arthritis and other symptoms, in a way that it won’t let it take over his life. That means working to stay in tune with his body, embracing complementary therapies, and maintaining a regular movement practice. His artwork also allows what’s going on inside him to flow out.