“Beyond the Canvas” - Unveiling Art, Resilience, and Community

Written By Anna Morrison

Written by Farida Tukur, Project Manager

We are excited to share the progress of our "Beyond the Canvas" project, a community-based art initiative funded by SeeMe Scotland and supported by the Byres Community Hub. Since its launch in May 2024, the project has empowered a resilient group of ethnic minority women through creative expression. These women have explored and shared their experiences of mental health stigma, trauma, and the unique challenges they face as minorities navigating intersecting identities.

The inspiring journey created through “Beyond the Canvas” culminates in an exhibition proudly featured as part of the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival and Black History Month Celebration at the Byres Community Hub, University of Glasgow. Through diverse mediums like art, crafts, poetry, and photography, the exhibition offers a powerful glimpse into the personal growth and collective strength of the participants.

Our Journey So Far:

Over the past few months, "Beyond the Canvas" participants have engaged in a series of interactive workshops aimed at fostering creativity, healing, and connection. Each session has been thoughtfully crafted to provide a safe and welcoming space for participants to express their thoughts, emotions, and experiences.

From discussing the impact of mental health stigma to exploring themes of belonging, clarity, shared humanity, and kindness, these women have poured their hearts into creating powerful art pieces that reflect their personal stories. The support of the facilitators, fellow participants and the Byres Hub community has helped strengthen their voices and build a sense of belonging and mutual support.

The Exhibition:

You are warmly invited to the launch of our “Beyond the Canvas” exhibition, titled “Voices Unveiled”, inspired by this year’s SMHAF theme, IN/Visible.

·      Date: Friday, 11th October 2024

           Or Scan the QR code below:

QR code beyond the canvas

 

The exhibition will remain open to the public from the 4th to the 31st of October 2024, providing an opportunity to meaningfully engage with the powerful showcase of voices and stories brought to life through art, reflection, and resilience. 

The Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival returns from 10-27 October with a diverse multi-artform programme, creatively exploring the theme ‘In/Visible’.  Browse the complete programme and book tickets here: https://mhfestival.com. 

#BeyondTheCanvas #VoicesUnveiled #EmpowerWomen #InclusionAndDiversity #BAMEVoices #ArtForHealing #BreakingStigma #smhaf #smhaf24 #MentalHealthArts #MentalHealth #Invisible #Activism 
 

 

 

Anna Morrison