In honor of Mental Health Month, Torrance Art Museum offers a special edition of “Please Don’t Touch the Art. Materials were compiled by TAM Registrar Hope Ezcurra.
“I used to think I was the strangest person in the world but then I thought there are so many people in the world, there must be someone just like me who feels bizarre and flawed in the same ways I do. I would imagine her, and imagine that she must be out there thinking of me too. Well, I hope that if you are out here and read this and know that, yes, it’s true I’m here and I’m just as strange as you.” – Frida Kahlo
Andrew Wyeth, Christina’s World, 1948
Vincent Van Gogh, Portrait of Dr. Gauchet
A compilation of essays by James C. Harris, MD, Director of the Developmental Neuropsychiatry Clinic and Professor of Psychiatry at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, exploring the role of the visual arts in representing truths about mental health, coping with illness, trauma and conflict, addressing social stigma, and enriching society's understanding of mental illness
Jeff Frost, Circle of Abstract Ritual (video still), 2013
View:
Sanctuary of the Aftermath
Presented at the Angels Gate Cultural Center in San Pedro, the exhibition explores works of art that address the transformation of traumatic experiences and creating new channels for connection after the prolonged period of physical separation. It is presented with a virtual online exhibition and available for viewing in person by appointment. The exhibition is presented in conjunction with events of WE RISE LA, an ongoing project of the LA County Department of Mental Health. There is a full roster of artistic events related to address mental health.
https://www.angelsgateart.org/otw_pm_portfolio/sanctuary-of-the-aftermath/
John Everett Millais, Ophelia, 1851-52
Listen:
-Reflecting 'Madness' in Art-
Hosted by Ferren Gipson, the Art Matters podcast brings together popular culture and art history.
https://www.artuk.org/discover/stories/art-matters-podcast-reflecting-madness-in-art
Do:
10 Art Therapy Exercises for Anxiety
If you or someone close to you are suffering from anxiety (as many of us are during the pandemic) may we suggest using one or more of the art therapy exercises to potentially help your mental state.
https://arttherapyresources.com.au/art-therapy-exercises-anxiety
Art Therapy Activities to Do at Home
While restrictions are starting to be lifted in regards to the CoronaVirus here in the United States, some people are still working from home or due to higher risk factors are still quarantining, here are seven activities that can be done from the comfort and safety of your own home.
Resources:
Important Links and Phone Numbers
If you or someone close to you is suffering from mental health issues, below is a list of resources available:
SAMHSA
This service provides referrals to local treatment facilities, support groups, and community-based organizations for mental health and substance abuse treatment. Callers can also order free publications and other information.
1-800-662-HELP (4357)
https://www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
A national network of local crisis centers that provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
1-800-273-TALK (8255)
https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/
The Trevor Project
A national organization providing crisis intervention and suicide prevention services to LGBTQ+ young people.
1-866-488-7386
https://www.thetrevorproject.org/
Mental Health First Aid
Compiled by the National Council for Behavioral Health, this is a comprehensive list of resources for people suffering from a vast gamut of mental health issues.
https://www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org/mental-health-resources/