On March 30th, we celebrated World Bipolar Day at the NIMHANS Centre for Well-Being with an exciting event, attended by people from all over the city. Our event explored the overlap between science and art. A merge of two distinct worlds, where facts blend with imagination to explore the human experience. Where scientific inquiry informs artistic expression, not only illuminating our world but also advancing understanding and awareness of mental health.
Ever wondered why this particular date? March 30th marks the birthday of the legendary artist Vincent van Gogh, who is believed to have struggled with mental health throughout his lifetime. Drawing this connection between creativity and mental health is crucial. Van Gogh's masterpieces aren't just brushstrokes on canvas; they are windows into the complex interplay between brilliance and turmoil.
Our event was not conceived just to raise awareness; fostering understanding and empathy were also our goals. We attempted to achieve this by offering participants an understanding of the life of someone with an severe mental health disorder diagnosis.
One of the featured activities was a zine-making workshop. Picture this: participants diving headfirst into the world of DIY publishing, crafting zines that depicted their perceptions of bipolar disorder. But here's the twist – before putting pen to paper, they had the chance to engage in meaningful conversations with individuals who have lived experience with the disorder, as well as with scientists and doctors. It was like watching perspectives evolve in real-time, from stereotypes to nuanced understandings.
From the hesitant whispers of those sharing their stories for the first time to the enthusiastic debates sparked by the latest research findings, the room buzzed with authenticity and vulnerability. It was a safe space where stigma took a backseat, and genuine connections took center stage.
We also showcased a diverse range of artwork, all centered around mental health and bipolar disorder. What made it truly special was the inclusion of pieces submitted by members of the general public, and by people with disabilities (divyangjan) at a workshop conducted by NIMHANS in association with the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities. It was a powerful reminder that creativity knows no bounds, even in the midst of mental health challenges.
We received a staggering number of incredible submissions; a few stood out and were selected for recognition. Here are selected pieces -
Vartika Arora
I have based this artwork on my academic knowledge of Bipolar Disorder as well as the lived experiences of some people with this diagnosis. It tries to depict the emotional turmoil that they go through- From being unable to move and curled up in a fetal position, to feeling like the bright and colourful sky's the limit, these lows and highs are naturally very distressing for the person on this painful rollercoaster, especially because they can emerge unexpectedly. The muted blues and the bright warm tones have been used to depict the contrasting affective aspects of depression and mania respectively. The crests and troughs of the sea waves as well as the dark clouds symbolize the stormy, erratic and engulfing nature of these turbulences affecting different aspects of a person’s life. The figure in the center represents the desirable euthymic state (neutral mood) between depressive and manic episodes.
Thoithoi Thoudam
Personalities (oil on canvas, 51x51 cm)
The art is about the different types of emotions and personalities that i felt and act in different situations. The figure is made to be seen as a single body yet two different being at the same time and I made it they way because i feel like a completely different person when I'm in a different situation and that makes me question whether if I'm being my true authentic self or not but also come to make peace with the idea I am all of that. It also represents the high and low points in my life. The yellow and green parts represent the good and bright times like the bright sun and fields outside and the blue and brown represent the sad and melancholy times in my life.
Archisha Ganguly
Eclipses of the Mind
The painting becomes a realm of tumultuous emotions and contrasting hues, echoing the turbulent journey of bipolar disorder. The painting's central figure, depicted in a fragmented state, embodies the dualities of euphoria and despair that characterize the disorder. On one side, vibrant strokes of electric blue, fiery reds and earthy greens surge with an almost manic energy, symbolizing the manic phase of bipolar disorder. Swirls of chaotic patterns intertwine, reflecting the racing thoughts and heightened creativity often experienced during manic episodes. Contrastingly, the other side of the canvas is engulfed in somber shades of black and deep orange , representing the depths of depression. The figure slumps, burdened by the weight of their emotions, with shoulders hunched. Shadows loom ominously, mirroring the overwhelming sense of emptiness and despair that accompanies depressive episodes. The middle panel pays homage to Vincent Van Gogh, representing a sunrise painted in his characteristic style. "Eclipses of the Mind" invites viewers to contemplate the complexities of bipolar disorder, offering a visual narrative that captures both the struggles and the resilience of those living with the condition. It serves as a reminder that within the depths of darkness, there is always the possibility of finding light and redemption.
Praggya Yaadav
The painting shows the essence of bipolar disorder and its oscillating nature. On the left, vibrant colours depict happiness, uplifted by the presence of a butterfly that symbolizes transformation and hope. The right signifies the moments of despair, frustration, and hopelessness, portrayed through the melancholic hues. I aim to illustrate the turmoil that individuals often experience that pulls them into a vortex of darkness, similar to a tornado. I have also paid homage to Van Gogh's ‘The Starry Night’, depicting elements and colours that signify the relationship between these contrasting states of emotion. Similar to Van Gogh's, the starry night in my painting represents the in-between where the polar opposites merge, and show the delicate balance between light and darkness. Through this, I aim to convey the complexity of bipolar disorder, where moments of hope intertwine with doubts, signifying the emotions within.
Ramya Pillutla
Page 704 of 18396. The ups and downs of bipolar disorder feel like a never ending book, each page bringing something new. Page after page. Wonderful colours. Horror. One day your life is magical, the next day you don’t want to live. And you don’t know why. So you hang on, you seek help, you hope the page turning stops at some point, that you can close the book and live a normal life. Somehow, you hold on to hope. What choice do you have but to keep on keeping on?
We couldn't have asked for a more engaged and compassionate community. Each conversation, each artwork, each shared moment was a testament to the power of human connection in breaking down barriers and building bridges.
So, where do we go from here? Well, the journey doesn't end with World Bipolar Day. It's a stepping stone, a catalyst for continued dialogue and action. Whether it's advocating for better mental health resources, challenging stigma in our communities, or simply being there for someone who needs a listening ear, there's always more we can do.
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