When Emily-Rose Steele began creating her artistic expression of mental illness the words tunnel, darkness and loneliness were at the forefront of her mind.
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But there was also butterflies and hope.
“When I thought about this theme, it conjured up images of being in a dark place and seeing a light at the end of the tunnel, and that there is hope,” Emily-Rose, 15, said.
The All Saints College, St Joseph’s Campus, Lochinvar, student – along with her year 9 creative arts classmates – were asked to create a series of works as part of a Tenison Woods Education Centre social justice committee initiative to open a discussion on mental health.
“Often, young people have good ideas about things, but aren’t often heard and they don’t get the opportunity to express their views on things,” committee member Sister Maureen Salmon said.
“So we wanted to engage them on this important issue so they can learn more about the difficulties other people face.”
Included in the series is Meg Crittenden’s piece titled The Lady in Black, which focuss on overcoming depression, and Ashleigh Rosenkranz’s tribute to the late actor/comedian Robin Williams.
“The reason I decided to do this is because of how Robin Williams made others feel,” Ashleigh, 15, said.
“And although he didn’t overcome his adversity he helped others overcome theirs through his work because he made thousands smile.”
If you or anyone you know needs help please call:
- Lifeline on 131 114
- Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
- Parent Line on 132 055.