Local artist and educator Mark Kellett worked with local children and young people in partnership with Motiv-8 to co-create an immersive installation using visual art and sculpture. The project explored and developed an existing project of Mark’s in which he explored the complexities of mental health and drew upon his own experiences, reflecting upon challenges he has faced and overcome.
Mark delivered a series of workshops that young people could attend regularly or on a drop-in basis at the Hilsea site to promote easy access and encourage participation. Here he talked about his work and experiences, encouraging young people to explore their beliefs and ideas around mental well-being and what it means to them and to spark conversations. The young people produced a series of striking visual art works and mini sculptures in response to the project, reflecting strength and resilience in the face of adversity, experimenting with the use of neon, sculpture and spray paint sessions.
Mark and the young participants co-created an installation within a large shipping container using neon artworks, 3d sculptures and UV light to immerse the visitor in an otherworldly experience.
The young people were fully invested in the outcome of this project as co-curators and the creative ideas grew in ambition as the workshops progressed, confidence grew and ideas were shared. What started as a blank shipping container culminated in an awe-inspiring, glowing collection of responses, including a giant ‘portal to happiness!’ The pride of the young people on inviting their peers and local communities to engage with the experience was evident.
