The annual Mental Health Art Works (MHAW) Exhibition is set to be held at Gosford Regional Gallery from October 8-17, with four high-profile Central Coast champions coming on board to applaud the therapeutic benefits of art.
Musical artist Melinda Schneider, award winning Aboriginal artist Garry Purchase, Paralympian old medallist and world record holder, Helena Brunner, and MHAW award winning youth artist, Lily Slade, have offered their support for the unique exhibition, which is coordinated by Coast & Country Primary Care.
Coast & Country Primary Care CEO, Kathy Beverley, said the exhibition, now in its 23rd year, showcases the stories of people who have been touched by mental illness and express this through art.
“Our champions have lived experiences of their own and are courageous to share their stories with others,” she said.
“All four have either previously entered, been a finalist or won categories.”
Schneider said she knew first-hand how important art can be in healing from depression.
“I entered for the first time last year after a tough few years of overcoming two bouts of depression,” she said.
“As a singer-songwriter, creating my music has always helped me process so much emotional stuff, but in the past three years, painting has helped me just as much and I was thrilled that my mental health work was purchased by Member for Dobell, Emma McBride.
“I will continue to share the story of my journey and support this wonderful initiative long into the future.”
Helena Brunner said each year she found herself more open to expressing who she is through her art.
“I love to be able to share this ride with others in the ‘same boat’ of mental illness and welcome them in and not row the boat alone,” she said.
“Breaking the stigma is a constant theme and this exhibition is all about this.
“I always hope in my heart that acceptance and support will flourish further.”
For Slade, the exhibition has provided a voice for her experiences and shown her the importance of a healthy coping mechanism.
“It is a wonderfully diverse representation of our Central Coast community,” she said.
Garry Purchase said he had used art as a tool in his own healing.
“I wholeheartedly believe in sharing this opportunity with others,” he said.
Last year 140 artworks were displayed across a variety of artistic genres and mediums including painting, ceramics, sculpture, drawing, embroidery, and quilting, with entrants ranging from 10-90 years old.
This year, a series of free workshops will be held in adjacent studios at the gallery on September 26-30 and October 10-14.
These will have a wellbeing and cultural theme and will include Aboriginal art, weaving, artefact making, art therapy, storytelling, and mindfulness.
More information about the workshops and how to register is available at www.ccpc.com.au.
Source:
Media release, Sep 6
Coast & Country Primary Care
