The art of recovery

Peninsula artists affected by mental health issues will have their talents showcased as part of the 2017 Mental Health Week Peninsula Art Exhibition next month.

 Wintery Wonder, by Sherilyn Bohn

Wintery Wonder, by Sherilyn Bohn

This annual event recognises not only people who have experienced mental health issues but also their care-givers, family and friends.  Timed to coincide with Mental Health Week on October 8-14, the exhibition uses art as the medium to encourage an understanding of people who live with mental health issues.  Artistic expression can play an important role in the artists’ recovery as they express their feelings and thoughts in a manner that can be rewarding and incredibly healing.

More than 80 pieces of art are included in the exhibition across a wide range of media, including sculpture, painting, photography, drawing and film. To enhance the viewing experience, several artists have also included the inspiration behind their works to share with the audience. This creates a powerful and unique connection between the viewer and the artist and leads to a deeper understanding of the artwork.

“Creativity has given me calm and solace throughout my struggles,” says artist Annabelle Carver. “I found happiness upon every stroke of colour, guiding me to a sense of peace I never knew existed.”

Fellow artist Sherilyn Bohn adds. “I love exploring colour and the flow of lines in my art. It helps me to unfold what I am feeling inside and ‘get it out’. That acknowledgement is a step towards self-awareness and dealing with attitudes and feelings and being able to communicate them.”

The exhibition has been co-ordinated by Wellways Frankston, a leading not-for-profit mental health and disability support organisation whose services cover mental health, disability and community care and reach thousands of people every year. Its work with a diverse range of people with mental health issues and various disabilities brings about positive change. Wellways Frankston also assists them to lead fulfilling and positive lives within their communities, helping them create homes, secure jobs and build meaningful relationships.

The 2017 Mental Health Week Peninsula Art Exhibition runs from Thursday, October 5, to Saturday, October 28, at Cube 37, Frankston Arts Centre, 25-37 Davey St, Frankston. It’s open Tuesdays-Fridays from 9am-5pm and Saturdays from 9am-2pm, and entry is free.  The public is also invited to attend the Artists’ Soiree on Monday, October 9, from 6-8pm for refreshments and entertainment with the artists. Anyone interested in producing artwork or attending the soirée is asked to contact Wellways Frankston on 9784 6800. To find out more about Wellways and the services it offers, please visit wellways.org