Exhibition helps artists bounce back
Monday, 24 October 2011
Textiles, metal sculptures, paintings and drawing are just some of the mediums used in an eclectic art exhibition to celebrate Mental Health Month.
Bounce Back 2011 is being held from 25-29 October at The Black Box Theatre, Newcastle Community Arts Centre, 246 Parry Street, Hamilton, and is open from 10am to 4pm daily.
Opening night is on Tuesday, 25 October at 7pm, and will include food and drinks, a “silent” auction and a live auction of a selection of artworks.
Organiser Alan Johnson said the event, among the last in the region for Mental Health Month, showcases the talents of local artists, many of whom also happen to be mental health consumers.
“This is the second year we have run the exhibition,” Mr Johnson said.
“We have also invited contributions from staff and others involved with mental health organisations, as well as those who themselves have experience of mental illness.
“The quality of the art is amazing. I think this exhibition showcases the skills and talents of those involved – everyone can be equal in the creative process.”
It hopes to challenge the stigma associated with mental illness as well as promoting hope and recovery.
“It will give those involved the sense of pride and achievement any artist gets from having their work on exhibition,” Mr Johnson said.
Workshops will also be held at the gallery during the exhibition period for anyone interested in trying their hand or learning more about a range of artistic forms, including drawing, painting, music, zine and “uglydolls”.
Visitors are also invited to help create an ongoing artwork that will take shape through the exhibition.
Wellbeing: Invest in Your Life is the theme for Mental Health Month 2011.
“Mental health is more than the absence of mental illness,” Mr Johnson said.
“Creative outlets such as art, sculpture, poetry, journaling and writing are all ways to improve our wellbeing and mental health.”
Go to http://www.hnehealth.nsw.gov.au/mh/bounceback_art_exhibition/ for more information
Contact: HNE Health Communication Unit
Phone: (02) 4985 5522