ARTISTS who have experienced mental illness will feature in an exhibition aimed at breaking down the stigma of mental health and improving access to treatment.
The 2016 Mental Health Week Peninsula Art Exhibition, at Cube 37, Frankston Arts Centre, will showcase the work of artists who have experience of mental illness, either themselves or as carers or family members.
For Peter Fanton, whose painting Justified and Ancient won best artwork at last year’s exhibition, art is “a means by which I bring into focus that which matters to me”.
“I become a story-teller of my relational experience with self, others and the world around me. Creative expression has been, and continues to be, a multi-modal form of communication which feels safe and authentic,” he said.
“In terms of recovery and my wellness strategies, art allows me to connect and express my values and what has meaning to me.”
The exhibition is being run by Mentis Assist, a not-for-profit organisation providing specialised mental health support for people aged 16 and over living in the Frankston and Mornington Peninsula areas.
Its services include homelessness support, activity groups within the community, youth support, carer and family outreach, and tailored care for individuals from dedicated support workers.
The exhibition will be from Thursday to Saturday, 2-22 October at Cube 37, Frankston Arts Centre.
See mentisassist.org.au/mental-health-art-exhibition for more details.
