By David Young, PAAn array of illuminated artworks has been unveiled at the National Botanic Gardens to mark the start of a fortnight of events aimed at tackling the stigma around mental health. The Silva Lumina – Lights of Growth has been created by Co Mayo based artist Tom Meskell with the help of 50 people from the community. The after-dark experience was commissioned by the First Fortnight Mental Health Art and Culture Festival, which is now in its 13th year. “Stigma only adds to the distress of those experiencing mental ill health and harms their friends and families,” she added. “Research has found that art can improve mental health, slow cognitive decline, build self-esteem, and enhance one’s quality of life.

Source: The Herald January 05, 2024 11:19 UTC