Art Exhibition to encourage talking about mental health
An exhibition of work by up to 20 artists has been launched to encourage people to talk about mental health.
Outloud will run in a family-friendly gallery and workshop space below Great Bear Tattoo Studio in Tunstall from August 19 to September 2.
Organised by freelance graphic designer Daniel Rhead-Brown (main image), from Packmoor, the aim is to break down taboos and help people to enjoy art and talk about mental health in a location that feels accessible to anyone.
“A few friends and people I’ve been close to have committed suicide,” said Daniel, whose business DRB Designs is based in Silverdale.
“It’s important to get people talking and to help to spread the word about the help that’s out there. There’ll be signposting to support at the exhibition.”
For Daniel, whose own artwork will be amongst that on display, art is a great way to get people talking about their feelings.
He says: “People can express themselves through creating art and through enjoying other people’s art. A lot of people take up art for their own mental health reasons.”
The support group Men Unite is set to have a hub at the exhibition and Daniel is bringing in other groups for sessions and workshops. The exhibition will also be open to the public.
The work on display will include paintings, photographs, sculptures, illustrations and ceramics. Twenty-five per cent of the proceeds from any work sold will be donated to mental health charities.
Daniel is hoping the exhibition can become an annual event. He added: “I hope that we can use the medium of art and the accessibility of a venue right in the heart of the community to highlight a different issue each time we stage an exhibition.”
Visit www.outloudart.co.uk or email info@outloudart.co.uk to find out more.
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