New Cowichan Exhibit Highlights Art’s Role in Mental Health

A new exhibition titled “Recognition and Recollection” opens on January 8, 2024, at the Cowichan Performing Arts Centre in Cowichan Valley, showcasing the positive effects of art on mental health. Organized by the Cowichan Valley Regional District’s Arts & Culture Division in collaboration with several local arts organizations, the exhibit will feature the works of 51 artists, displaying a total of 55 pieces of visual art until February 28, 2024.

According to Laura Stephenson, supervisor of the Arts and Culture Division, the exhibition aims to address the mental health challenges that often arise during the winter months. “The darkness of winter and pressures of the holiday season can bring on feelings of loneliness and depression for some people,” she explained. “The new year brings a chance to reflect on what we’ve been through over the past year and what we hope for next, including taking care of our health.”

Statistics from the 2024 Island Health Our Health, Our Communities Health and Wellness Survey reveal that 31 percent of residents report fair to poor mental health, with 24 percent stating that their mental health interferes with social activities. The exhibition hopes to invoke feelings of affirmation and validation, emphasizing the significance of art in supporting mental well-being.

Exhibition Details and Themes

“Recognition & Recollection” will explore themes of personal relationships, depression, memory, and cognitive decline. The diverse range of artwork will include abstraction, detailed portraits, and fibre art. The collaborative nature of this project underscores the essential role of art in expressing and understanding universal human experiences.

“Research shows that just looking at art has an immediate effect on reducing stress and increasing well-being,” said Stephenson. January is also recognized as Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, and many pieces in the exhibition address the impact of cognitive decline on mental health for both individuals experiencing these changes and their caregivers.

The public is invited to a free opening reception on January 8, from 1 to 3 p.m. Attendees will have the opportunity to view the artwork, meet the featured artists, and hear insights from community leaders about the positive effects of art on well-being. Guest speakers will include Francesca Reside, manager of the Ladysmith Gallery, Elizabeth Croft, president of the Cowichan Valley Arts Council, and Donna Draper from Kindness Tree Art, among others.

Community Impact and Accessibility

Stephenson expressed a hope that viewers will take away three key messages from the exhibition. “First, the recognition that resilience comes in many forms. Second, that art helps with the recollection of what we’re capable of. And third, that there are organizations in our area that advocate for the importance of accessible, community art.”

The collaborative effort of five local arts councils aims to enhance community services that promote well-being and improve the livability of neighborhoods. The exhibition not only highlights the talent of local artists but also showcases the vital work of these organizations in supporting mental health through art.

Private and group viewings can be arranged by contacting [email protected]. For more information, visit the Cowichan Performing Arts Centre calendar at www.cowichanpac.ca.