Collective to lead fest of art and fun

AS the Ballarat Mental Health Collective prepares to mark Mental Health Month in October, they’re organising a series of creative and fun community events.

BMHC convenor Paul Hartwood said the Collective is encouraging artists of all levels to enter their annual Art Exhibition, which has a focus on experience of mental health challenges.

The 2022 show will be presented in a physical space, and online, and visual creatives can enter up to three original pieces.

“The entry criteria is people in our region with a lived experience of mental health, people who are carers of those people, and those in the community who create works that are mental health-themed,” Mr Hartwood said.

“We’re all about de-stigmatisation, the promotion of positive mental health, and it’s really fantastic that we can be back having an in-person exhibition.

“However, the online showcase really adds a dimension and level of exposure that’s great for the artists. The peoples’ choice award got 300 votes last year because of the broader audience online.”

A festival at Lake Esmond on Sunday, 9 October from 10am to 2pm will also be a feature of Mental Health Month.

A ‘circle of solidarity’ will be formed around the lake, and organisations working to support people with mental health concerns will be available at stalls to have conversations or provide information.

All-ages activities and entertainment will run on site, with live performances from local musicians. Attendees are encouraged to park at Canadian Lead Primary School.

BMHC’s major fundraiser, an auction, will go live on Monday, 10 October, before a Brighten Up Ballarat campaign encourages locals young and old to wear bright colours to work or school on Wednesday, 12 October, in promotion of positive mental health and acts of kindness.

Art Exhibition 2022 submissions close on Friday, 16 September. Entry is by a digital form at bit.ly/3civdNY.

The in-person exhibition will hosted by Ballarat Community Health at Lucas, with an official opening on Tuesday, 4 October where prizes will be awarded.

Some other member organisations of BMHC include Uniting, Grampians Health, Ballarat and District Aboriginal Co-operative, and CatholicCare.