-
Art has been a central part of Robbie’s mental health journey for over thirty years. “I found art after I became unwell in 1993. I started cartooning and then went to animation school. I always cartooned, but about 8 years ago I got into finger painting, and that has been much more therapeutic. I was very unwell at the time but I didn’t have any brushes so I just started painting. I ended up painting Gord Downie from Tragically Hip. It was so therapeutic for me and helped me get better.”
Robbie participated in an art group through ICMH’s GROW program 5 years ago and found it to be a “comfortable and relaxed” place that supported his recovery.
As Robbie puts it, “Art’s always been there for me” and now Robbie is helping to bring art to others through as a Peer Support Worker with the Peer Supported Open Art Group at ICMH.
Art Group is an inclusive and creative environment where people can create art and socialize in a safe space. As with all peer support programs at ICMH, the goal is to promote connection and inspire hope for mental health recovery.
“Each day in the Art Group looks different,” shares Robbie who is now an Art Group Facilitator. “Tuesday is a really social day and is pretty busy. Wednesday is a quieter day and Friday can be a mix. Some people may not want to talk and just want to work on art. Others like the social aspects and getting to know each other.”
Over the years, Art Group has become a regular part of many people’s lives. “We’ve had people who have been coming to the drop-in for 1 to 2 years. Some people take 2 buses just to participate” says Robbie.
Robbie is proud to bring his 31 years of live mental health experience to his role as Peer Support Worker and says that his work gives him a “sense of purpose.” But most of all, he’s glad to get to share art with others and experience the “magic” that happens in Art Group.
