At Inner Joy Art Gallery, we believe that art has the power to touch hearts, inspire minds, and heal souls. This belief was reaffirmed during a recent visit by 20 Psychology students from HELP University, accompanied by their esteemed lecturer, Prof. Dr. Eugene Tee, and dedicated counselor, Esther Song. It was a visit that held special significance as it marked the final day of our "Timeless Memories" Art Exhibition as well.
On October 15th, our gallery played host to an extraordinary session on mindful, slow viewing, as well as positive psychology. The students embarked on a journey through our "Timeless Memories" Art Exhibition, a celebration of Malaysia's rich cultural heritage and the enduring essence of cherished memories.
The session was nothing short of profound. As the students, lecturer, and counselor moved through the gallery, there were moments of quiet reflection. In this silence, the art became a bridge for introspection, a mirror for emotions, and a canvas for personal narratives.
It was during these moments that the magic of art unfolded. Each piece spoke to the viewers in its own unique language. The colours, the textures, the stories embedded in every stroke of the brush, all found a way into the hearts and minds of those present.
And then came the sharing. A few of the students bravely stepped forward to express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. Their words carried the weight of vulnerability, the beauty of self-discovery, and the promise of personal growth.
The session was deep and profound, moving and heartfelt. It was heartwarming to witness how art had created a space for dialogue, reflection, and connection.
But there was more to come on this remarkable day. Mustafa bin Yahya, one of the participating artists, took the opportunity to share his experience and insights into the three artworks he exhibited in the "Timeless Memories" exhibition. His words and experience as a 69-year-old senior artist in Malaysia added an extra layer of depth to the art, allowing the students to understand the creative process and the stories behind the pieces.
Head curator Dymphna Lanjuran, a guiding light in our gallery's artistic journey, gave a gallery tour of the rest of the exhibition to the students. She shared her extensive knowledge and perspective, illuminating the artistic nuances and historical significance of each piece.
This day, with its rich blend of mindful viewing, emotional sharing, and artistic insights, was a fitting conclusion to the "Timeless Memories" exhibition. It highlighted the immense impact art can have on our mental health and overall well-being.
Art appreciation, as demonstrated by these forward-thinking students and their supportive educators, is a powerful tool for mental health. It allows us to explore our emotions, understand our perspectives, and connect with others on a profound level.
In a world that often moves too fast, moments of mindful viewing and artistic reflection provide a breath of fresh air for our souls. It reminds us to slow down, to embrace the present moment, and to acknowledge our emotions and thoughts.
We wholeheartedly commend HELP University for taking this proactive approach to expose young minds to the transformative power of art. This initiative not only contributes to the students' personal growth but also serves as a reminder to all of us that art can be a potent force in shaping our lives and well-being.
We hope that this remarkable example will inspire more educational institutions and organizations to adopt similar approaches. The benefits are not limited to students; they extend to people of all ages and backgrounds. After all, art is a universal language that has the power to heal, inspire, and connect.
Let us continue to celebrate art, mindfulness, and mental health. Together, we can create a brighter, more emotionally aware, and deeply connected world. 🎨💖🧠
Below are more photos from this special day for your viewing pleasure!
Photos credit : Counsellor, Esther Song (HELP University), Dymphna Lanjuran (Inner Joy Art Gallery)
