An unusual art exhibition opened at St Kevin's Psychiatric (multi-sensory) Unit at Shanakiel in Cork last weekend. The exhibition, running until Friday, reflects six years of collaboration between residents at the unit and the Cork Community Art Link project.
The collaboration began as part of a new therapy programme in the unit and is being regarded as an outstanding success. One of the artists involved, William Frode de la Foret, says: "Some of the patients have now firmly established painting as a favourite pastime . . . Some of the residents find it difficult to communicate and painting has given them a medium to do so in their own way and in their own time."
The residents have contributed oil and water paintings as well as murals and mosaics to the exhibition. They have also been involved in the creation of an indoor garden - a "Sunshine Cafe" - with a waterfall and beach area. The project, designed with help from the artists to simulate a cafe environment, is now the gathering place for parties and music sessions.
A painting by one of the residents was chosen recently by the pharmaceutical company Janssen for inclusion in its millennium calendar.
Dr Ruth Mitchell, clinical director of North Lee Mental Health Services, said at the opening that the therapeutic value of painting had become well recognised. It helped to develop self-confidence and self-expression as well as improved communication skills.