View Grid
2025 Gallery

A Test of Focus

by: Olivia Taleon
8th Grade, ICON Art Academy, Irvine, California
Teacher: Leslie Kwan

"Self-compassion is essential. Learning to never give up on ourselves teaches us to never give up on anyone else."

quote by: Debbie Walker-Lass, Decatur, Georgia

Purchase Canvas Print of this Artwork

Artist Statement

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a genetic disorder that can affect the function and development of a person. This disorder can result in hyper movements, lack of focus, and absent-mindedness. In this piece, a dull generic classroom is disrupted by a loud and cluttered workspace. As the main figure takes her test, her doodles and reminders on her colorful, messy desk demonstrate how distracted she is in her "own world". Her daydreaming face exemplifies a lack of focus as a blank paper sits in front of her. The six hands can be seen moving in different orientations and fidgeting with other objects, a common habit in ADHD. Despite the bright environment, the idea of being "different" can lead to depression, shown in the monotone, patchy clothes. To avoid this, spreading awareness will allow people to feel they aren't alone and are able to welcome their differences with others.