Celebrating the healing power of art

23 Sep 24

For some service users, arts therapy is a big outlet for their emotions and expressing how they are feeling. We are delighted that some of the artwork produced by HPFT service users is being displayed at The Letchworth Open - Hertfordshire’s largest celebration of creative talent, showcasing a diverse range of artwork from over 450 artists.

Artwork called 'Office Snippets' showing three drawings of a woman's legs

The talented individuals attend the Art in Health Art Group in Hitchin, led by HPFT Arts in Health & Recovery Practitioner, Denise Johansen from the HPFT Enhanced Primary Mental Health Service.

Matthew is displaying his beautiful piece Butterfly on Thistle, while Kevin has contributed two powerful artworks, Feelings and Easter. Valeriia is showcasing a series of three pieces titled Office Snippets, and Jamie is exhibiting both Mudkip Trouble and The Girl Who Waits. The inclusion of these works in the exhibition shows what a positive role in mental health and recovery, art can play.

All of these amazing works are currently on display at the Broadway Gallery in Letchworth Garden City, with the exhibition running until 9 November 2024.

Three artists will be awarded the Letchworth Open Bursary, which includes a solo exhibition at the gallery next year, along with a CPD and mentoring program. Subject-specialism prizes will also be awarded, and the People’s Choice Award gives us all the chance to vote for our favourite artwork.

If you visit the gallery, don’t forget to look out for the incredible works by Matthew, Kevin, Valeriia, and Jamie – and make sure to cast your vote for the People’s Choice Award to help your favourite artwork shine!

Letchworth Open 2024 - Broadway Gallery, Letchworth (broadway-gallery.com)

The Art in Health Art Group, meets weekly in Hitchin, providing a supportive and creative space where service users can express themselves through art. Arts in Health & Recovery Practitioner Denise Johansen, works closely with group members, helping them explore their artistic potential and experience the therapeutic benefits of creativity.

Two paintings with a black background and splashes of colour called 'Mudkip Trouble' & The girl who waits'

Framed photograph of a butterfly on a thistle

Splashes of colour on a canvas and the picture is called 'Feelings'

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Celebrating the healing power of art