Look out for rainbows at the MAC

s part of its new ‘MACtivate’ programme, the MAC has distributed hundreds of art packs to their five associate partners to encourage users to try art and design as a way to express themselves and take care of their mental health during this phase of the Government lockdown. Artwork created through this project will be displayed alongside that of professional artists as part of a special exhibition in the MAC’s Tall Gallery.

‘In a Rainbow of Coalitions’ will be home to hundreds of homemade creations from children, families and groups - budding artists and members of associate partner organisations - from all walks of life. It is hoped the rainbow, which quickly became a symbol of hope during the pandemic, will help spread positivity and encourage others to get creative.

Gillian Carr, Service Manager at Action Mental Health explained why they got involved in the project and how it helped to support participants. She said: “Using the arts is an effective and enjoyable way to relax, show your creative side and to learn new skills. That’s exactly why the MAC’s rainbow project was the perfect fit for many of our clients, providing them with another very positive way to support their recovery from mental ill-health.”

Jen White, Creative Programmes Manager at the MAC added: “We want everyone and anyone to be able to access and participate in the arts, so we were delighted to be able to provide these packs with the help of the team at Play Resource and artist Miguel Martin who we commissioned to create special activity sheets.

‘In a Rainbow of Coalitions’ will run until January 24, 2021 and coinciding with exhibitions from professional artists Peter Liversidge and Frederic Huska in their Upper and Sunken galleries.