By Kath Gannaway
ART is a powerful tool for Healesville women Anne Duff and Aaryn Capocasa.
Their work is included in Another Moment in the Journey exhibition at the Upper Yarra Arts Centre.
The exhibition of paintings by participants of arts programs run by Rivendell in Healesville and CAMHA Yarra Junction, which provide mental health programs, was launched on Sunday, 8 October as part of Mental Health Week.
It is the first time Anne and Aaryn have put their work on show for the public.
It’s a significant step which puts both their work and the context in which it is done on show.
It is an opportunity to create an awareness of mental health and the people who wear the label.
Ann had never painted before joining Rivendell and says it has built her confidence and self esteem.
“Painting has been very powerful for me, a real discovery.
“It has given me a whole new perspective, a goal and something to focus on other than mental health issues.”
Aaryn comes from a family of artists and is rediscovering its challenges and joys after not painting for almost a decade.
“I guess I came to a time when I said let’s do it, put in and see what I get and it’s very therapeutic.”
Ms Hassold has been with the art program for seven years. She says art is a unique therapy.
“The therapeutical values occur without having to name how it happens.
“That’s the magic of the creative process and once people start seeing how they can achieve sometimes quite amazing things, self confidence builds. “Putting a price on that work recognises what has gone into creating it in terms of time, emotion and creativity.”
Another Moment in the Journey is on at the Upper Yarra Arts Centre until Monday, 6 November.
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