The idea
This Project will provide creative activities for people to express what it is like to care for a loved one with enduring mental illness. Research suggests that caring in a mental health capacity, whether as an informal family carer or a professional, significantly impacts physical, psychological, and social well-being. The idea has already been extensively piloted on digital platforms with people across the UK responding remotely. We now wish to create a brand new element by delivering face to face workshops and activities, supported by interactive displays in Libraries, a Museum and Community Theatre in Deal, Dover, Margate and Canterbury. Audiences will be targeted through Social Media, and Carers Support East Kent. With opportunities for creative writing, painting, drawing, and photography, these activities will capture the fear, love, grief and resilience that shapes peoples' everyday lives, helping to transform deeply personal experiences into a powerful collective narrative.
What we'll deliver
- Audio / Visual display, presentations and 4 x 2hr creative workshops at the Astor Community Theatre, Deal
- Audio / Visual display, presentations and 4 x 2 hr creative workshops in both Dover and Margate libraries
- Audio / Visual display, a presentation and 12 x 2 hr creative workshops at the Beaney Museum of Art and Culture
Why it's a great idea
The project will support people to explore the use of creativity to improve their mental health by
- Building community through connection
- Helping to combat loneliness and foster solidarity among people with shared experiences.
- Acknowledging the voices of caregivers, and increasing awareness of their challenges and contributions.
- Celebrating the resilience and strength of people who are navigating complex emotional landscapes.
- Promote empathy and understanding within the wider community, helping to reduce stigma surrounding mental illness.
Here are some comments from initial work on the theme:
" ... I was very moved by how people came together and expressed how they felt through art. I like that they built a community around grief, and that gives me hope."
"Thank you for this, For the first time in 52 years, I feel at home".
"A beautiful way to give others a voice, and let them know they are not alone".
Steps to get it done
- Finalise dates and content of displays and workshops @ Dover & Margate Libraries
- Finalise dates and content for display / workshops at the Astor Theatre
- Publicity and promotion for library workshops
- Install Library displays and run 4 creative workshops at each of Dover and Margate
- Publicity and promotion for Astor Theatre presentation and workshops
- Install interactive display at the Astor Community Theatre, Deal, and run 4 creative workshops
- Liaise with Snapking to draft initial storyboard and produce final promotional film
- Meet staff to agree dates / content for display / workshops at the Beaney Museum of Art and Knowledge, Canterbury
- Create interactive display and provide 12 workshops @ the Beaney Museum of Art and Knowledge
