EXPLORING THE DEPTHS OF MENTAL WELL-BEING
Everybody must have experienced some kind of mental health challenge at least once in their life. It would be great if all of us could hold ourselves and others to be kinder and gentler so that no one else falls into a mental crisis.
To inspire compassionate conversations surrounding the heavily misunderstood subject of mental health, “Mind the Unseen Heart: A Journey to Wholeness” will be organised at the Sathorn 11 Art Space, Sathon 11, from Saturday March 14 to March 31.
This exhibition series is the first event under the project called “This Matters”, which was initiated by aspiring clinical art therapist Gabriela Moriarty in an effort to raise awareness and dispel the stigma surrounding mental health in Thailand.
It will bring together many talented multidisciplinary artists and professional health practitioners including poets, performers, storytellers, dancers, musicians and comedians who will open up the conversation on how their personal craft has been a valuable resource during their mental health journeys.
Visitors will be able to enjoy the works of several artists displayed at the gallery venue throughout the exhibition period, while dedicated activities celebrating a specific art form will be held on 10 nights, from 7pm to 11pm.
Each event is curated with the intention to answer the question of “why mental health matters” within the framework of different artistic disciplines and mindfulness practices. The aim of the event is to promote mental health literacy within the community.
THESE EVENTS INCLUDE:
“Why Art Matters” on Saturday March 14. The opening night will showcase the works of five artists and culminate with an artist talk.
“Why Storytelling Matters: Doubling the Joy, Halving the Sorrow” on March 19. This storytelling will feature true stories of personal mental health journeys.
“Why Sound and Silence Matter: Listen, It Answers” on March 20. An immersive experience with kirtan music, hang drums, gong baths, and more that will expand the senses with unique sounds and necessary silence, helping to transcend the barriers within society that divide our humanity.
“Why Performance Matters: My Daemon Muse” on March 21. An evening of performance art which will examine the human journey of self-discovery that is imperative to recognising passion, potential and purpose.
“Why Movement Matters: Your Body is Your Home” on March 22. A night of performance dance showcasing the possibilities of movement as an expressive tool to tell personal stories beyond the limitations of words.
“Why Comedy Matters: Laughing Through It” on March 26. A comedy show to bring laughter and joy and remind us to not take life without a pinch of giggles. The comedians will also hold a panel to discuss how comedy can be a positive resource for mental health.
“Why Mental Health Literacy Matters: Stay Informed” on March 27. A panel discussion and a Q&A session with a range of mental health practitioners.
“Why Poetry Matters: Pre:Scribed” on March 28. A collaboration with Bangkok Lyrical Lunacy featuring a series of original poems uniquely written and inspired by Petite Fleur’s photography.
“Why Breath Matters: Breath Brings Life” on March 29. This will be an opportunity to learn about the power and benefit of different kinds of breathing practices.
“Why Remembering Matters: In Memory of the Departed” on March 31. A memorial celebration for anyone who would like to share stories of loved ones that have passed on, how we can live with grief and still thrive, and a discussion on death and how it affects us.
There is no admission fee. Sathorn 11 Art Space is located on Sathon 11 and is open daily from Tuesday to Sunday between 5pm to 1am.