We marked World Mental Health Day on the 10th of October, with our second annual Art in Focus: The Healing Arts Exhibition. We felt it important to remember and spotlight the existing and necessary work aimed at genuinely supporting islanders with severe mental illness who are living inthe silence between annual awareness days. At Focus on Mental Illness, our mission is to ensure these islanders, and their families, are never forgotten.
The event, held in partnership with the Art in the Frame Foundation, showcased the incredible artwork of participants in our twice-weekly art workshops. These sessions, made possible through a grant from the Channel Islands Lottery via the Jersey Community Foundation, provide a vital space for individuals living with mental illness to connect and express themselves creatively.
Seeing the artwork on display and hearing the personal stories behind each piece was a powerful reminder of the role creativity plays in mental health recovery. Art has the remarkable power to heal, inspire, and unite. For many of our participants, art is not just a form of expression—it’s a way to manage symptoms, build confidence, and foster a sense of community.
We want to thank everyone who made this event a success, including our incredible artists, volunteers, and supporters. A special thanks to our patron, His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor of Jersey and his wife Dr Karen Kyd, for doing such a wonderful job of opening the exhibition.
