When I was around 15 or 16, I went through a dark period, feeling overwhelmed and lost. I would sit by the water, contemplating my life and seeking an escape from my pain. Fast forward nearly ten years, and that same water has become my sanctuary, a place where I find peace and solace. On days when I feel down, it’s my refuge. This painting represents my journey and highlights the importance of mental health. It shows how a place that once symbolised my despair has transformed into a source of strength and healing. Mental health matters deeply to me because it reminds us of the power of resilience and the possibility of finding light even in the darkest times.

Name: Shaunna Byrne
Mediums used: Watercolour, pencils, marker, midge podge and glitter
Age: 24
University Category: student in TUD

I love 20th century abstract art and took inspiration from Wassily Kandinsky, Piet Mondrian and Picasso to create this poster submission. I wanted to create a thought provoking composition for the poster design, to create conversation and debate.

The composition is absolutely open to many interpretations.
What I see, is the fast paced and sometimes relentless motion of work and life in the composition. With a balanced, symmetrical focal point, catching and segmenting tasks or dropping tasks, even if they are incomplete.

Name: Niamh
Mediums used: Pencil (HB), Felt pen and watercolour on A2 150g Cartridge paper. Slight digital exposure adjustment on photo taken of artwork.
Age: Adult
Workplace Category: an individual submission

I am a 29 year old artist and art teacher. My sister is a mental health nurse and so this issue is always at the forefront of my mind and I base a lot of projects off of it.
I wanted to use colours I found symbolic of depression and mentally tough times combined with lighter colours that express hope. I used idea of hands reaching from the depths towards hope, while the shades of blue decrease as they close the distance to the hopeful future.

Name: Caroline Morgan
Mediums used: Acrylic paints on card
Age: 29
Community Category

CONNECT
My concept is that everyone has different ways of looking after their mental health so I drew a range of people and the things that they do to stay well; like baking, journaling, art, sport etc. I also feel like with mental health everyone is stronger together and life is always better with a pet! The first letter of each of the characters names spells.
Name: Jessie Dilleen
Age: 12
School category