M

Mental Health Awareness Challenge: Winning Designs Benefiting The Trevor Project

Art has the incredible power to transcend barriers, ignite conversations, and uplift communities. At Threadless, we believe in harnessing this power to create meaningful change. In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, we held a special challenge supporting The Trevor Project in their mission to help LGBTQ young people facing mental health struggles. Our Artist Community stepped up with their creative brilliance, crafting designs that inspire, raise awareness, and remind these young individuals that they are not alone.

Statistics from The Trevor Project reveal the alarming reality that more than 1.8 million LGBTQ young people in the US seriously consider suicide each year. In response, our community turned to art as a catalyst for change. Threadless pledged to donate $1 per unit sold from this challenge to The Trevor Project, with a maximum contribution of $5,000. Many participating artists also chose to donate a portion of their own proceeds through Threadless Causes.

We are now thrilled to showcase the winning designs from our Mental Health Awareness challenge. Each artwork serves as a powerful symbol of love, acceptance, and community, reaching out to those who may be struggling. We recently connected with the winners and a few honorable mentions to learn about the creative process behind their submissions and the messages they hope to convey. Join us as we celebrate these remarkable designs and work toward building a more supportive environment for LGBTQ youth.


FIRST PLACE: “Support Trans Kids” by Letter Shoppe

“I hope the declaration of ‘Protect Trans Youth, Support Their Journey’ urges us to unite and safeguard these brave kids.”

Dean Rodriguez, founder of Letter Shoppe
FIRST PLACE: “Support Trans Kids” by Letter Shoppe

Tell us about the concept behind your design. What do you hope viewers take away from it?

Dean Rodriguez: This artwork is a message of love, resilience, and hope, celebrating the beauty and strength of trans youth who are fighting harder than ever for their rights to self-expression. I hope the declaration of ‘Protect Trans Youth, Support Their Journey’ urges us to unite and safeguard these brave kids. Through this piece, I aim to ignite a fire in people’s hearts, reminding them of the importance of compassion and understanding. Inspiring us to stand against the injustices faced by trans youth and work towards a world where their journey is embraced with unwavering support, acceptance, and love.



As a non-binary, bisexual, and neurodivergent artist, how has your personal journey influenced your artistic style and the messages you aim to communicate through your art?

DM: As a non-binary, bisexual, and neurodivergent artist, my journey has profoundly influenced my artistic style and the messages I create. Embracing my non-binary identity has liberated my creative expression, allowing me to transcend traditional notions of femininity and masculinity. When it comes to being neurodivergent, I have harnessed my intense passion and hyperfocus, turning my lifelong hobby into a successful career. My art embodies authenticity, diversity, and a unique perspective that I hope inspires others to embrace their identities and break free from societal norms.

Art has the power to spark conversations and inspire change. How do you envision your designs contributing to a broader dialogue on mental health awareness and LGBTQIA+ rights?

DM: In a world where naivety and ignorance prevail, where perspectives are often overlooked or dismissed, art can become a catalyst to break through the noise. With charisma, charm, and a heartfelt tone, I hope to spark open conversations that challenge preconceived notions and inspire action toward positive transformation in support of mental health and LGBTQIA+ rights. Together, let us embrace art’s potential to bridge divides and foster a more inclusive and understanding society.

Anything else you’d like to share?

DM: In the spirit of collaboration and community, this design is part of my new series, where I invite my audience to inspire what I draw. It’s been an incredible experience to let my followers decide what we create, and the selected person’s comment received a $100 shopping spree to my Threadless store. Throughout the process, I actively seek suggestions and incorporate revisions based on their valuable input. A heartfelt shoutout goes to @sal.amand.er on Instagram for their suggestion and to all the beautiful souls on both TikTok and Instagram who generously shared their opinions and insights.

I am deeply grateful for the overwhelming support and enthusiasm from people who eagerly participated in creating this meaningful design for The Trevor Project. It has been a way for us to come together and provide support specifically for the trans community, which needs our help now more than ever.


SECOND PLACE:  “Empathy” by Diego Gurgell

“When I finished, I knew there was something special about the drawing, a universal message.”

Diego Gurgell

Tell us about the concept behind your design. What do you hope viewers take away from it?

Diego Gurgell: As soon as I finished reading the briefing on the website, I immediately started sketching the initial drafts. I had no doubts about where I wanted to go with it. It was raining, and I noticed that the larger plants were sheltering a bird’s nest in my backyard. It was my eureka moment, like Isaac Newton’s apple falling on my head. I took a photo of the sketch and began finalizing it on the computer. When I finished, I knew there was something special about the drawing, a universal message. You look at the image and can understand the feeling.

SECOND PLACE:  “Empathy” by Diego Gurgell


You’ve previously illustrated for the Netflix series Super Drags. How did working on this animated series contribute to your artistic growth, and what challenges or opportunities did you encounter during the process?

DG: I worked on Super Drags in 2018. It was one of the happiest periods of my life. The studio where the series was produced is located in the city of Rio de Janeiro, and I ended up moving there—a breathtakingly beautiful city. The team was incredibly talented and diverse, with people from different backgrounds coming together to create something special. I remember feeling excited to go to work the next day. During the production of the series, I had contact with several drag queens, and understanding their universe was a game-changer for me, making me a better human being. The project lasted for 11 months, and in the end, it was noticeable the impact it had on me. I cherish the memories of that time dearly.

How important do you think it is for art to promote inclusivity and acceptance, and what role do you see yourself playing in this mission?

DG: Art is political. Food, posters, music, clothing, and so on. Whether you like the idea or not, what you consume is political. Art serves to guide your consumption towards something that makes sense to you. One of the functions of art is to protest when it is consumed.

Anything else you’d like to share?

DG: I want to thank Threadless for all these years, bringing together creativity, entrepreneurship, and social causes. This is how artists make the world a better place. Thank you.


THIRD PLACE: “H.O.P.E. – Healing with Openness, Pride, and Empathy” by Explain Singh

“I hope it hits the right feeling and reminds everyone of the power of hope.”

Explain Singh
THIRD PLACE: “H.O.P.E. - Healing with Openness, Pride, and Empathy” by Explain Singh

Tell us about the concept behind your design. What do you hope viewers take away from it?

Explain Singh: Well, it’s all in the title. HOPE, it’s a word that’s got layers. It’s a noun, a verb, and even an acronym! We gotta have hope and be hopeful at the same time. And you know who’s the poster child for hope? Lady Liberty herself! She’s standing tall, representing hope and showing her love for the LGBTQ community. That’s why we got the acronym H.O.P.E.—Healing with Openness, Pride, and Empathy. I hope it hits the right feeling and reminds everyone of the power of hope.



Your YouTube series, Explain Singh, delivers an entertaining mix of science, humor, and music. How does this approach to learning enhance the understanding and engagement of your audience, particularly when it comes to complex scientific concepts?

ES: My objective with the YouTube channel is to make science a bit more approachable, less scary, more fun, and totally mind-blowing for everyone. Kids, adults, aliens—you name it. Explain Singh and my trusty sidekick Bunty whip up some seriously spicy science in our Cosmic Kitchen. Yeah, complex scientific concepts take a hot minute to tackle. You need to bring out all the spices for that, but you know what? The challenge just adds to the fun of it all! As I say it, Welcome to the Cosmic Kitchen of Spicy Science.

What are some of the challenges of making science accessible and enjoyable for viewers of different ages and backgrounds?

ES: Well this goes for both my wicked graphic ideas and my YouTube channel, the goal is to make science accessible and enjoyable. But here’s the kicker: research. We gotta get it right, no room for fakin’ it. Science ain’t a playground for misinformation. So, striking that balance between making it simple without dumbing it down, that’s where the real brain-busting happens.

Anything else you’d like to share?

ES: Big shoutout to the Threadless community, you guys rock! Your support and love fuel my creative fire. Thank you Dhanyvad, Shukriya, Shukran, Tusen Takk, Kiitos. And let’s take a moment to give props to The Trevor Project. They’re out there doing incredible work, supporting LGBTQ+ youth like champs. Keep spreading the love, the acceptance, and the hope.


HONORABLE MENTION: “Mirror Motivator” by Matt Windsor

“When we look in the mirror all sorts of negative emotions can creep in, but everyone deserves to be happy with themselves.”

Matt Windsor

Tell us about the concept behind your design. What do you hope viewers take away from it?

Matt Windsor: In today’s image-focused world, we can get so self-conscious of our appearance. When we look in the mirror all sorts of negative emotions can creep in, but everyone deserves to be happy with themselves. I wanted the wearer of Mirror Motivator to have a hit of positivity and affirmation every time they saw their reflection. My design uses three simple aspects—a motivational saying, a thumbs up visual, and a rainbow—the happiest combination of colors, and especially relevant to the Trevor Project’s LGBTQ community.

HONORABLE MENTION: “Mirror Motivator” by Matt Windsor


How do you believe the combination of visually appealing design and motivational quotes can impact someone’s mindset and overall well-being? What kind of emotional response do you hope to elicit from those who interact with your designs?

MW: Positive messaging, visuals, and color can all play a part in lifting your mood and displacing negative feelings. Repeating mantras like “You’re Awesome” can help you feel better about yourself. Throw in a power pose while you’re doing it to engage your parasympathetic system and crank up that well-being! I hope that folks wear my shirt, see themselves in the mirror, believe the message and enjoy better mental health.

Anything else you’d like to share?

MW: This design works great on clothing that you see in a reflection, but it’s less effective on homewares or accessories. That’s why I made a regular “unflipped” version which reads normally—also available in my shop. So the positive “You’re Awesome” message can be seen everywhere, from stickers and notepads, to greeting cards and yoga mats. Because who doesn’t want to be reminded they’re great while bending over in a downward dog?!


HONORABLE MENTION: “Reading Between the Lines” by Jando

“While the government may enact restrictions around identity, they cannot redact our existence.”

Jessica Anderson
HONORABLE MENTION: “Reading Between the Lines” by Jando

Tell us about the concept behind your design. What do you hope viewers take away from it?

Jessica Anderson, aka Jando: The LGBTQ+ community has always and will always exist. No ban or law can change that. While the government may enact restrictions around identity, they cannot redact our existence. This design is a reminder no matter what’s happening around us, we’re still here, supporting each other, and saying “gay.” Inspiration started with a Nancy Drew book, something that was also once banned in parts of the United States.



Your website mentions that building queer community is a significant aspect of your life. How do your personal experiences and identities shape your artistic expression?

JA: I’m a disabled, neurodivergent queer woman living in a large body. Loved ones and strangers have openly criticized these aspects of me throughout my life. I grew up Catholic and internalized the criticism, developing a deep shame around who I am. I didn’t understand the point of life and first saw a therapist at 12 years old.

I’m now 38 and cannot overstate the impact that therapy, self-expression, and community have made in my life. Seeing and meeting people who express themselves with pride gave me the courage to do the same. It showed me that I’m not alone, it’s okay to feel how I do, it’s okay to talk about it, and it’s okay to be proud of who I am. Going from being ashamed to being proud is a journey. My hope is that people take away a little courage from my artistic expression and keep going.

Anything else you’d like to share?

JA: To the LGBTQ+ youth: You belong, you matter, and you are so, so loved. If you feel otherwise, please know that your parent’s beliefs and behavior shape how you see the world. Sometimes we think it’s how the whole world operates. It’s not. It’s just how they operate.

Most people don’t believe the same exact things your parents or church do. So many people don’t practice religion or believe in damnation and they are out here thriving. There’s so much life beyond your current situation. There are people ready to love and support you exactly as you are right now. In fact, they’re actively looking for people who are just like you. Please keep going, you are worth it.


HONORABLE MENTION: “Your Only Limit is Your Mind” by Tobe Fonseca

“Life’s tough, sometimes brutally so, but we firmly believe in our inner power to jump-start the change we need.”

Tobe Fonseca

Tell us about the concept behind your design. What do you hope viewers take away from it?

Tobe Fonseca: “Your Only Limit is Your Mind,” we aim to inspire and uplift. Life’s tough, sometimes brutally so, but we firmly believe in our inner power to jump-start the change we need. Whether we’re able to ignite that spark solo, or need to reach out-be it to a friend, a therapist, or a helpline-every step counts.

HONORABLE MENTION: “Your Only Limit is Your Mind” by Tobe Fonseca


What role do you think art plays in creating connections and conversations among people who share similar passions and life experiences?

TF: Art’s a conversation starter, a unique expression interpreted through individual lenses. That twist—where understanding skews and perspectives collide—fuels thought and human connection in its rawest form. And what better canvas for sparking those dialogues and self-expression than a t-shirt?

Anything else you’d like to share?

TF: Hey, remember you’re not alone and things will improve. Life can get so heavy, we need a little help lifting it. I’ve been there—hit rock bottom before seeing it as a launchpad. Therapy’s part of my weekly routine now, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. It turned psychology into a passion for me, a tool that’s helped me navigate life’s twists and turns and embrace who I am, unapologetically.


Mental Health Awareness Challenge

We invite you to explore the remarkable collection of winning designs from the Mental Health Awareness Challenge. Each purchase not only brings a unique piece of art into your life, but also contributes to The Trevor Project’s mission to end suicide among LGBTQ young people. Together, let’s embrace the power of art and support those who need it the most. Special thanks to all of the participating artists!

Rafael Velez

Copywriter at Threadless. Lover of thin-crust pizza, heavy metal, and B horror movies. Food source for a husky and two cats.