Art exhibition amplifies voices on mental health

Amplifying the voices of those affected by mental health challenges is the focus of Gallery 48’s latest exhibition

Out of the Mist exhibition at Gallery 48: Julia Onufreichuk’s Endless

Amplifying the voices of those affected by mental health challenges is the focus of Gallery 48’s latest exhibition.

The Mental Illness Fellowship of Australia, in collaboration with Gallery 48, is presenting Out From The Mist, an exhibition featuring digital artwork from twelve national and international artists.

This unique event is held at Gallery 48 until October 5, and offers a platform for artists to express their support for mental health awareness through art.

Ilyse Elphick, of the Mental Illness Fellowship of Australia, said visitors were invited to explore the powerful and thought-provoking works throughout the exhibition’s run.

“Out From The Mist offers a powerful platform for individuals to share their experiences with mental health through creative expression,” Ms Elphick told NQ Weekend.

“By focusing on photography, videography, and music, the competition encourages participants to explore the often-stigmatised subject of mental health in a way that promotes understanding and empathy.”

Gallery 48: Alison Dowling and Lyn Dunlop at Out From The Mist

Anne Lord, of Gallery 48, said the Mental Illness Fellowship and Gallery 48 shared a commitment to raising conversations around mental health and wellbeing.

“By providing a venue in Townsville for Out From The Mist exhibition from MIFA, Brisbane, Gallery 48 aims to bring awareness to the complexity of being a creative person and how the power of visual arts can provide a medium for exploring and expressing mental health challenges,” Ms Lord said. “The support network of the visual arts and organisations such a MIFA assist to reduce stigma and create a supportive space for individuals to share their experiences.”

This year, in addition to the many personal stories of lived experiences with mental health conditions, the exhibition will also highlight two deeply personal stories from carers.

Often overlooked, carers faced their own challenges, including trauma and feelings of helplessness as they strived to support their loved ones through difficult times.

Anne said the carers’ stories and images provided a powerful glimpse into their journey.

Ms Elphick said the exhibition aimed to create a deeper understanding of mental health challenges by showcasing personal and powerful stories through visual art.

Many of the works in the exhibition demonstrate the resilience of individuals living with mental health challenges. We want visitors to feel inspired by the strength and hope reflected in the art.

“Mental health challenges are often invisible or misunderstood. Art can provide a lens of the experiences individuals face with mental illness, making their struggles more relatable to others.

Out of the Mist exhibition: Nina-Marie Thomas’s Connection

“This helps bridge the gap between those who experience mental ill health and those who may not fully understand them.”

This was the fourth year Gallery 48 has partnered with the Fellowship to showcase Out From The Mist.

Ms Elphick said the public response to previous exhibitions was a deep appreciation for the emotional storytelling conveyed through the artworks.

“The exhibitions have been praised for creating an inclusive space where complex mental health issues can be explored in a relatable and impactful way.”

Several participating artists have generously pledged proceeds from sales to the Mental Illness Fellowship, which has been an advocate for those living with severe and complex mental illnesses for more than 30 years.

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Gallery 48 is at 2/48 The Strand in North Ward, and is open Wednesdays, Fridays Saturdays from 12pm to 5pm, or by appointment, phone [phone]. Out of the Mist runs until October 5.

Originally published as Art exhibition amplifies voices on mental health