A New Zealand Health Survey released in 2020 found that one in six New Zealand adults had been diagnosed with a common mental disorder at some point in their life, including depression, bipolar disorders and anxiety.
So this September, immediately following Mental Health Awareness Week, Föenander Galleries, in conjunction with Lifeline, will host an off-site exhibition in Herne Bay at the Unlimited Potential Real Estate office on Jervois Road.
The exhibition will be centred on the brief 'Semicolon', which when used in writing is an opportunity for a story to continue rather than end. Inspired by Project Semicolon, this message has been transposed as a symbol in the mental health world defining itself as "dedicated to presenting hope and love for those who are struggling with mental illness, suicide, addiction and self-injury", and "exists to encourage, love and inspire".
The gallery will be exhibiting works from acclaimed artists such as Roger Mortimer, Billy McQueen, Cruz Jimenez and Ramon Robertson, and will forgo their commission on the sale of exhibited artworks and funds donated to Lifeline. Artists will be paid their standard commission on the sale of any work - unless they wish to make a donation of any given amount.
The exhibition will run for two weeks from Tuesday 29 September until Monday 12 October, open for viewing seven days from 12-6 pm or by appointment.