Finding joy through art: Cathy’s journey
The Recovery College is hosting a new art exhibition celebrating creativity, self-expression and the different paths people can take through recovery. The exhibition brings together work by learners, offering a space to share their talents, experiences and personal achievements with the wider community.
For artist Cathy Madden, creativity has played an important role in her journey, supporting her confidence, encouraging her to explore new techniques and helping her discover a passion for painting.
Cathy’s journey began three years ago at Sound Minds, a mental health charity that supports people through music, film and art. At the time, Cathy mainly created diamond art, using small gems to make images, and drawings with felt-tip pens. She had never tried painting. With encouragement from artists Sam and Tania, Cathy picked up a paint brush and began a creative journey that has helped her build confidence and discover a passion for painting. Since then, Cathy has experimented with a wide range of materials and techniques, including charcoal, printing, salt, flour and other textured materials, moving from landscapes to bold abstract shapes and patterns.
Cathy describes her artwork as "a journey of techniques" inspired by places she has visited and moments from everyday life that have caught her eye.
For Cathy, art provides much more than a creative outlet, she finds that creating art helps to quiet her mind and brings a sense of calm.
"Creating art gives me so much freedom and joy. It puts me in a different head space. When I'm creating art, my head gets quiet and everything else just disappears."
She says creating art has increased her confidence not only in her artwork but in other areas of her life, helping her to believe in her own ideas and abilities.
When asked what she hopes visitors will take away from her work, her answer is simple: "Joy!"
For Cathy, seeing her artwork included in the exhibition is a proud moment.
"I've managed to do something I didn't imagine being able to do - something I would normally run away from. The support I've received from the Recovery College and Sam from Sound Minds has made all the difference."
The exhibition highlights the important role creativity can play in supporting recovery and wellbeing, while providing a platform for learners to share their talents, experiences and personal achievements with the wider community
Take a step inside the exhibition by watching this short video featuring Cathy’s artwork.
Watch a short video about Sound Minds and its work with our acute and urgent care services to support patients after they leave hospital.
