Young people from secondary schools and Youthreachs across Donegal have collaborated to encourage young people to explore their mental health through art by taking part a new exhibition hosted by Jigsaw in partnership with Mind your Melon.
From the 21st of January to the 2nd of February, the entries were featured in public exhibition at An Grianan Theatre. A prize-giving event was then held to celebrate all the young people who took part in the competition.
‘The art exhibition fits perfectly with the Mind Your Melon programme, which focuses on activities to support positive mental health and wellbeing. Art is a powerful tool for self-care and self-expression, as demonstrated by the fantastic art-work created by the young people of Donegal.’ says Ciaran Mcloone, Chairperson of Connect Mental Health.
Amy McRory, Youth and Community Engagement Worker with Jigsaw, commended the young people on their efforts. “We were absolutely blown away by the creativity and talent shown by all the young people who took part in the art exhibition. It is so important we continue to provide platforms for young people to express their thoughts, emotions & unique perspectives in such creative ways.”
Siobhan Maguire, a 6th year student from Loreto Secondary School in Letterkenny won first prize in the Art Competition. She said “I have always heard great things about Jigsaw. I saw the poster in the school’s art room and felt the theme of “Growth” appealed to me. My painting was created using acrylic paint and paper. The lady in the piece shows resistance to life’s hardships. Her hands show how a person can grow even during such hardships. The colour red shows life, positivity, and hope. I am thrilled my painting was chosen this year and I loved looking at all the work done by the others.”
Emma Alcorn- Curran, Youth Advocate with Jigsaw had a key role in planning, promoting and organising art exhibition. “Taking part in the Art Exhibition was such an enjoyable process. From our initial idea to relaunch the Art Competition, to setting the theme, to judging it, it was all so enjoyable for me. I was delighted to get to see the artists behind the art at our prizegiving. To see so many happy faces showing off their art is exactly what they deserve”, she says.
Davin Coyle, a 5th year student from Gairmscoil Chu Uladh, was awarded “highly recommended” by the judging panel. ‘I’m just so thankful to get recognized for the honesty and vulnerability in my piece. I hope it brings inspiration to others for the future.”
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