As our already fast-paced lives get ever more demanding, it's important now more than ever to take the time to check in with our heads. A brand new art installation in Sydney's CBD is helping us to do just that, by way of a transportable vending machine.
In conjunction with Art & About Sydney, the installation has been designed to help break the stigma that often surrounds mental health, and to encourage all of us to engage in those sometimes tricky conversations about our own mental well being. For just $2, you can buy a bite- sized packet of food for the mind. Some of the treats on offer include: purpose, bravery, structure and connection (we bought ourselves some 'imagination' when we were there).
The installation is a collab between artists Elizabeth Commandeur and Mark Starmach, and was created with the help and consultation of mental health professionals.
“We live in a society where, for most of us, our physical needs are largely met, but often our emotional and psychological lives go unfed,” said Starmach, in an interview with City of Sydney Council.
“This is seen in the increase in diagnoses of mental illnesses like depression and anxiety, and in the more commonplace experiences of stress and loneliness.”
“In this fun, interactive artwork, we hope people find an unexpected way to talk about the things we all need more of in our minds, and increase their awareness of an important cause,” added Commandeur.
All proceeds from the work will be donated to mental health organisations that are researching or offering support to those experiencing mental health issues, including the Schizophrenia Research Institute at NeuRA, NSW Mental Health Association (WayAhead), and beyondblue.
Perhaps you'd like to buy yourself some 'reassurance'? Or, maybe you could do with a bit of 'spontaneity'? Get in quick! The installation is only around until April 8.
If you, or someone you know is struggling with mental health, you can get in touch with Beyondblue here:
1300 224 636