The power of sewing: Georgia artist works through mental health issues by making hats [Video]

COLLEGE PARK, Ga. (Atlanta News First) – Otis Damón has suffered from depression since his teens.

“Contemplation of suicide,” said Damón, “I dressed it up — smiling, helping, laughing but it was killing me on the inside.”

Then, he met his high school teacher, Mrs. Sibley.

“I confided in her. She had me come to her class for lunch every day. She taught me how to sew,” said Damón.

Sewing became an avenue of healing; a medicine. Damón has been making hats for 37 years now, selling to all kinds of people including celebrities like Alicia Keys.

“I go by ‘Hat Mogul,’” he said.

Damón’s designs can be unexpected and bright.

“A hat is a mystery. A hat can be security. It can be fun, definitely fun. I like the fun part,” said Damón laughing.

Otis has a space in a live and work area in College Park called Push Push.The organization is trying to create a hub for artists to live and work without breaking the bank, offering some artists a …