Hull Fair Inspires Community Art Project

On Friday 10 October, Humber Teaching NHS Foundation Trust is celebrating World Mental Health Day with a focus on how art and creativity can improve our mental health. Creative Connections is aptly named for how art can connect us to one another, as well as the undeniable connection it builds with positive mental health.

Local artist Charlotte Eldred will be attending to bring along her unique brand of doodle art to form an art project which celebrates creativity, connection and community through a collaborative artwork. The project is entitled Art Draws Us Together, based on a large painting of a Hull scene, inspired by the energy and atmosphere of Hull Fair. Hull Fair, the annual event eagerly anticipated every October opens on World Mental Health Day this year. This vibrant backdrop will provide the setting for the community’s contribution.

Visitors will be invited to take part by doodling their own unique portraits on A6 and A7 cards with Charlotte. These portraits will then be added to the large Hull scene, gradually building a lively “crowd of people” within the artwork.

By the end of the project, the piece will reflect a shared experience: a diverse and joyful crowd brought together through individual contributions. The result will be a visual expression of collaboration and connection, highlighting how art draws us together.

This project will feature alongside artwork submitted by the Trust’s mental health inpatient units and artistic members of the public. There are also mindful colouring and Kintsugi workshops available throughout the day. These workshops provide opportunity to try out different styles of art and connect with other people through shared creativity.

Mindful colouring will be available which is open to all ages and teaches us to be in the moment and enjoy the process. Rebecca Harbottle Art will be attending with her unique colouring designs. Mindful colouring is the practice of focusing your attention on the present while colouring, which can help reduce stress and anxiety and increase concentration. The simple, creative process allows you to relax by paying attention to the colours, the feel of the pencil and the movement of your hand.

The Japanese art of Kintsugi is also on offer throughout the event, hosted by the Trust’s Recovery College. Kintsugi was chosen for World Mental Health Day, along with mindful colouring and doodle art to provide opportunities for participants to see how art truly can connect with positivity and deliver long term positive benefits.

Creative Connections will provide an interactive and welcoming place for visitors. It takes place on World Mental Health Day, 10 October, on the Ground Floor of Princes Quay Shopping Centre in Hull from 11am to 3pm.

Don’t miss out on this fantastic pop-up event open to everyone!