I was invited to attend the Arts in Mind: Art as a Mental Health panel discussion at MOMA....which led on from the exhibition opening that i previously attended last week.
The panel and audience debated over whether Art is a result of Mental Health OR Art results in Mental Health?? This contrast really engaged the conversation and we began discussing the debate on Process / Product and the differences between an Artist and Art Therapist. I feel strongly about all of these subject matters so it was interesting listening to multiple individuals with many backgrounds.
However - what came out of this discussion for me was the reality that 'Art Takes Courage' for those involved whether its a famous artist or individual with mental health or dementia. By trying out techniques, colours, scales and patterns really is decided by the particpants themselves, in the help of emotion and well-being.
I'd like to finish with this quote by Edward Hopper:
"If i could say it in words i would have no need to paint".
A truly inspiring discussion.....
