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News>Schools’ Art Day
| Media release: 15 October 2009 | |
Thirty-five year 11 students from secondary colleges in Cardinia attended the schools day component of the ‘Art to Live By’ arts-based program as part of Mental Health Week 2009.
Cr Ed Chatwin, Chair Cardinia Shire Council’s Arts and Cultural Reference Group, said the aim of school’s day was to provide students with insight into how the arts can assist people recovering from mental illness and maintain mental health.
Students had the opportunity to view the exhibition and participate in workshops promoting different methods of creative expression.
“The workshops were facilitated by renowned author and playwright Barry Dickens and students worked alongside professional artists Di Lockwood, Gary Solomon and Tara Kingston,” said Cr Chatwin.
“Activities included printmaking and creative writing, they also had the chance to learn about local services for young people suffering from mental illness,” added Cr Chatwin.
Cultural Development Officer Rebecca Christensen Page highlighted the import role of programs such as this in raising young people’s awareness of mental illness. “Seventy five per cent of mental health disorders occur before the age of 25, and early intervention is crucial in minimising their onset and severity” she said.
“Programs providing young people with opportunities to engage with ideas around mental health in dynamic and alternative ways are essential” she added.
One student who attended the program commented that it ‘”was a good day, the painting was really relaxing and a great way to forget about everything”.
The ‘Art to Live By’ exhibition will be showing at the Cardinia Cultural Centre, Lakeside Boulevard, Pakenham until Tuesday 27 October.
The program was run through a partnership between Cardinia Shire Council, Eastern Regions Mental Health Association (ERMHA) and Arts Access Victoria.
For more information contact Council’s Cultural Development Unit on 1300 787 624 or ERMHA on 9796 1000.
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