Behind the Mask is an animation I created as an informational, visual representation of a psychological condition called “Smiling Depression.” Although my vibrant and playful design choices seem to contradict the sad and serious subject matter, they are juxtaposed with hints of bizarre and disturbing imagery, exemplifying the very contradictions inherent to this condition — pitting one’s positive, cheerful, and charming external presentation against the concealed, uncomfortable and dark internal state experienced by those afflicted.

This piece presents a difficult yet important topic in an appealing and engaging way to spread awareness about what this under-acknowledged phenomenon for those who experience it looks and feels like. Hopefully, it will help people better understand and empathize with those who experience the condition, increasing awareness that mental health issues can be counterintuitive and difficult to detect. It may even illuminate aspects of the phenomenon for those who experience it, perhaps even enhancing their understanding of themselves.