Exhibition puts mental health in the spotlight

The ARTiculate exhibition, which runs until November 5 at the art gallery space in Riverside House, features works by local people who suffer from mental illness, many of whom attend Rotherham support groups.

Rotherham Community Arts Service (Arts in Health) have worked closely with a number of groups on special projects in the past, which have included workshops in music, visual arts, drama and dance. 

The Arts and Health officer, Rhiannon Lister-Coburn, is currently running a two-year Action Research Project at Swallownest Court.

Councillor Ken Wyatt said: "With so many people affected by mental health issues it's important to supports mental health awareness, and what better way than with an art exhibition."

"Studies have shown that producing art can have a significant beneficial effect on a person's mental health by reducing anxiety, depression and lowering blood pressure.

"The artists have really benefited from working on their projects and some great pieces have been produced which the local community will now get to enjoy too."

Cllr Lyndsay Pitchley added: "It's always a great pleasure to represent those who have been affected by mental health issues and help to celebrate the great strides they made in combating and controlling the awful affliction.

"The art on display in the galley is a real indication of the help and support our residents can get in creatively leading normal and constructive lives and very inspirational it is too."

The exhibition will be open from 10am to 5pm daily in the Riverside House art gallery. Admission is free.