Geopolitical tensions, climate anxiety, pandemic isolation and the increased use of new technologies has left its mark on society’s mental health. Since the pandemic, this subject has gained increasing public relevance, yet much prejudice, suspicion and condemnation remain. To foster public awareness and reduce prejudice on this subject, the exhibition turns to various perspectives on mental health – a personal struggle with depression, the experience of witnessing the death of a relative, self-help techniques and prevention as well as the unmasking of stereotypes.
The artists participating in the exhibition are Anda Lāce, Līga Spunde, Reinis Hofmanis, Anna Salmane, Andris Kaļiņins, Krista Dzudzilo, Reinis Dzudzilo, Rasa Jansone, Ieva Vīksne, Zane Tuča, Ernests Vilsons and Sanita Tauriņa.
Curator of the exhibition, Laura Brokāne, writes: “Art has the capacity to open up an associative language through which to gather the courage to discuss psychologically difficult experiences, also fostering understanding and empathy among the broader public. At the same time, in discussing questions related to mental health, it is essential to establish and maintain straightforward language. The tendency to aestheticise these questions frequently is the result of fear and repression, thus downplaying the seriousness of the subject. The exhibition is an attempt to maintain this delicate balance, similar to how many of us are trying to keep the balance between the daily routine and internal anxiety.”
