When it comes to breastfeeding, many new moms find the reality to be far from their idealized visions. Take Emily Lee, a mother to her 18-month-old son, Noah. She shares, “I always imagined motherhood to be a blissful experience, reminiscent of those heartwarming baby product commercials, engaging with a chubby, smiling baby. But the reality included moments of crying, unexpected messes, and a whole lot of chaos that I didn’t fully grasp until Noah was in my arms. It’s a mix of beauty and struggle, with a sprinkle of sweetness and isolation.”
To express her experiences, Lee turned to art. Her Instagram account, Mom is Sketching, showcases her stunning illustrations that depict the reality of parenthood and breastfeeding, capturing the loving yet challenging moments.
Capturing the Reality of Motherhood
In one illustration, she portrays pumping as a nearly enchanting experience. Another piece features the classic duo of cookies and milk, a staple for snack time. One drawing humorously depicts a baby treating a nursing session like an intense Pilates class, while another captures the serene moments of peaceful nursing.
Emily illustrates how motherhood offers no breaks, even when illness strikes. Sometimes, it’s difficult to discern who is soothing whom to sleep. She captures the art of multitasking and highlights the lack of privacy that comes with nursing a toddler. One of her favorite pieces is a playful take on a breastfeeding mom’s go-to song, and another reflects how pumping becomes just another part of the daily routine.
A Love Letter to Parents
Emily hopes her artwork resonates with fellow parents, stating, “I began the ‘Mom is Sketching’ initiative as a love letter to parents everywhere, celebrating both the big and small challenges we face, from nursing and pumping to those precious moments when our baby sleeps through the night.”
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In summary, Emily Lee’s art captures the real essence of breastfeeding and motherhood, revealing both its challenges and joys in a relatable way.