Mental health remains a topic often shrouded in silence, owing to its deeply personal nature and our human inclination to avoid anything that feels overly didactic, which is also we're more comfortable with memes instead of unironic guidelines for whatever we may be going through. Art, then, becomes the only space for communication and starting a dialogue of mental awareness, camaraderie and acceptance through resonance, especially when it comes from a place of sincerity. On this World Mental Health Day, we're drawing attention to five art projects by local creators that delve into the intricacies of mental health, exemplifying how authenticity can serve as a vital instrument in addressing this pervasive issue.
Mental Health A-Z by Srinidhi Srinivasan
'Mental Health A-Z' by Srinidhi Srinivasan is a unique project that employs illustrations to represent mental health conditions and terminology, creatively integrating them into the letters of the alphabet. This innovative approach fosters understanding and awareness of mental health in a visually engaging manner, making complex concepts more accessible and relatable to a broader audience.
Check it out here.
Who Am I? by Saahil Acharekar
'Who Am I?' by Saahil Acharekar is a compelling visual art project that delves into the profound quest for self-discovery. Combining photography, illustration, and animation, this Mumbai-based video editor explores the intricate connection between our identity and our mental state. The project poignantly underscores how a troubled mind can unravel our entire sense of self, revealing the fragile and intricate web of self-perception. 'Who Am I?' captures the complexities of this journey with depth and creativity.
Check it out here.
Ghosts In My Mind by Sunny Kumari
Sunny Kumari, a Bangalore-based illustrator and designer, created her moving and deeply personal comic as a heartfelt tribute to her father after his death, allowing her to channel her grief into a positive creative outlet. Within the pages of the comic, she dedicates two stories to him, preserving their last shared memories. Additionally, Sunny shares the compelling story of a dear friend who lives with schizophrenia, aiming to shed light on this experience.
Check it out here.
Mental Health Illustrations & Poems by Ankur Chaudhary
Delhi-based graphic designer, muralist, and illustrator, Ankur Chaudhary, offers a profound exploration of mental health through his collection of illustrations and accompanying poems. This body of work delves into themes such as isolation, guilt, anxiety, judgment, connection, and reflection, providing a heartfelt and visually striking depiction of the complex landscape of mental health. Ankur's artistic expression offers a unique and empathetic perspective on the challenges many individuals face, fostering a deeper understanding of these issues through both art and poetry.
Check it out here.
Oasis by Riya Solanki
Mumbai-based illustrator Riya Solanki's project, 'Oasis', explores the notion of our inner child, drawing a parallel between nurturing it and caring for plants by providing water and nourishment. The project emphasizes the importance of self-care, utilizing positive affirmations and cultivating a positive atmosphere. Riya's work underscores the significance of establishing boundaries and self-advocacy to create a secure environment for our inner child to thrive, ultimately enabling us to unlock our full potential and flourish.
Check it out here.
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