Stoke-on-Trent — An artist from Stoke-on-Trent, who has faced mental health challenges for many years, is finding solace in a new men’s support group he describes as an “amazing place.” David, who typically works in solitude, has embraced the chance to socialize and collaborate on a community lantern project.
The Men Who Make Things group, hosted at B Arts in Hartshill, was created to foster connections among men, regardless of their mental health status or artistic background.
“Art serves as a visual means of navigating problems,” David noted. “It’s often about seeking solutions.” He shared that creating art in isolation can lead to feelings of loneliness, reflecting on his own journey: “I was an artist before my mental health issues emerged, so I can’t say whether it helps!”
David expressed the frustrations of artistic expression, likening it to life’s challenges. He encourages those struggling with mental health to consider joining the group, emphasizing its welcoming atmosphere: “Don’t worry about joining; it’s easy and very friendly.”
Rich Redwin, a fellow artist and session leader, founded the group in September and secured two years of funding from the Baring Foundation, an organization dedicated to protecting human rights and promoting inclusion. Redwin explained that while the center was successfully engaging women, it was not reaching as many men.
“There’s a men’s mental health crisis,” he remarked. “We’re not reaching out to men in the same way, nor are we providing an environment for them to be creative, engage, and build community.”
The group is currently working on a 10-foot lantern inspired by the Greek god Prometheus, which they aim to showcase at the Cheadle Lantern Parade this Saturday.
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