As part of Northern Ireland Mental Health Arts Festival, renowned Armagh artist, Dara Vallely will exhibit a series of his work ‘SOS’.
Inspired by the festival theme ‘Pause’, Dara’s work examines the link between creative expression and our mental health and wellbeing.
The interactive exhibit will encourage the viewer to take time to stop, pause and reflect on what they are seeing and how it makes them feel.
Designed with families and children in mind, the exhibition offers moments to ‘pause’ for guided reflection on the art around you, with lots of opportunities to become active participants in the exhibition itself.
Speaking of the exhibition, Vallely says: “In a busy and turbulent world, it is vital we take time to pause and think. I once saw a sign in a hospital instructing staff to take a ‘safety pause’ before taking action.
“This simple instruction resonated with me, the small moment to consider your actions or thoughts can save a life. The Irish word for pause is ‘sos’, a stop or rest but this could also be read as S.O.S., the universal call for help.”
On May 15 – 16 The Armagh Rhymers will also host interactive music, poetry and performance workshops with school children and local community groups.
Supported by Gael Linn, these bi-lingual performances will engage all ages in using performance and artistic expression as a form of self-care to support mental health and wellbeing regardless of background, ability or age.
Noelle Mc Alinden, Chair of NI Mental Health Arts Festival says: “NI Mental Health Arts Festival warmly welcome the return of Dara Vallely and The Armagh Rhymers this year as we celebrate our 10th Anniversary.
“This year’s theme is so very apt as we ‘Pause,’ a time to stop, stand still and reflect upon our Mental Health and wellbeing and the pivotal role of creativity self-expression and the arts upon our Mental Health and wellbeing.
“The Armagh Rhymers continue to inspire and enthuse. They bring a special form of a magic to our schools and across communities and generations. With their vibrant and interactive performances and diverse education programme.
We are delighted to have Dara Vallely also exhibit his stunning work too as part of our NIMHAF Festival.”
Dara’s Exhibition ‘SOS’ will be open to the public from May 14 – 17, 10am – 4pm, located on 3rd floor Aonach Mhacha, 74-76 Upper English Street Armagh.
Limited places are available in The Armagh Rhymers workshops on Wednesday 15 and Thursday May 16, contact info@armaghrhymers.com to find out more.
