Artists and MSP Use Mannequins to Illuminate Mental Health Struggles

A collaborative arts project in the Scottish Highlands is shedding light on the complexities of mental health through innovative artwork. Emma Roddick, a Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP) representing the Highlands and Islands, has teamed up with prominent artists including Michael Forbes, Rona Kant, and Lisa Poulsen to create striking pieces using mannequins. This initiative, titled “Art in Mind,” showcases the personal experiences of the artists and aims to raise awareness about mental health challenges.

The exhibition is currently being held at the Eden Court Theatre in Inverness as part of the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival Highland. The artworks will remain on display until October 24, 2023, before moving to Thurso on November 10. Following this, the mannequins will be auctioned off to support Centred Scotland, a charity that provides vital mental health services in the region.

The mannequins, sourced from the former Debenhams store at the Eastgate Centre in Inverness, serve as blank canvases for the artists. Each artist, along with two individuals who have benefited from Centred Scotland’s services, transformed the mannequins into profound representations of mental health struggles. Roddick, who has a personal history with mental health issues, emphasizes the importance of open discussions surrounding mental well-being.

Forbes, known for his pop surrealist works and support from celebrities such as Madonna and Ricky Gervais, created a piece titled “The Busy Mind.” This artwork features a figure bound in tape marked with the word “fragile,” symbolizing the challenges of mental illness. Reflecting on his own journey, Forbes stated, “As someone who has struggled with mental health all their life, I was delighted to have the opportunity to create this piece… My overactive mind can spiral into a whirlwind of negative and self-destructive thoughts.”

His message to those facing similar struggles is clear: “Don’t suffer in silence. Talk, talk, and talk. Ask for help and contact your doctor.” Forbes highlights the importance of seeking support and learning coping strategies as essential steps towards recovery.

Rona Kant, an acclaimed contemporary landscape artist, shares her passion for supporting mental health initiatives. “Living in the Highlands, sadly I have witnessed the lack of mental health services available within our communities,” she noted. “Therefore, I am delighted to be using my art to support this campaign by Centred to raise awareness and funding to bring desperately needed mental health support to our region.”

Lisa Poulsen, whose award-winning work often explores the textures of nature, contributes to the project with a focus on how the environment can enhance mental well-being. Her perspective adds depth to the conversation about the relationship between nature and mental health.

The chief executive of Centred Scotland, David Brookfield, expressed his pride in the Art in Mind project, stating, “Six individuals, each with personal experience of mental health challenges, have transformed blank mannequins into striking works of art that reflect their unique journeys.” He hopes the exhibition encourages dialogue around mental health, urging communities to reflect on what it means for individuals.

Donna Murray, project officer for the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival Highland, echoed this sentiment. She emphasized the alignment of Centred’s mission to empower individuals with mental health challenges with the festival’s goal of fostering creativity and connection within communities.

Art in Mind not only serves as a platform for personal expression but also aims to facilitate conversations about mental health, ultimately helping to break down the stigma surrounding these issues. The exhibition at Eden Court Theatre represents a significant step towards raising awareness and providing essential support for those in need.