A movement for youth-led mental health. This is art and activism rolled into one show - expect the unexpected.
‘Ever been told to ask for help? Then asked for help. Only to be told help wasn’t available?
(Maybe in six months, a few hundred miles away…)
Ever been told you’ve got a problem, but something inside you says: “Hmmm am not quite sure it’s JUST me?”
Ever get the feeling young people’s mental healthcare could be so much better?
Enter the Balmy Army. Over the past year young people, artists, madpride organisers, radical dreamers, disability justice doers and everyone else trying to cope have come together.
What do they want? Mental health support that works.
When do they want it? About 15 years ago…
From sharing poetry to making placards, to social media takeovers and mass acts of civil disobedience, everyone’s invited to join in. All of this work will accumulate into an exhibition being held here at HOME, featuring the Balmy Army’s writings, drawings, dreams and knowledge.
Don’t expect a static show. Think of it like a lab for action where anything (safe) can happen. This is a space to play, plan protests, give performances and even make your very own ‘Madidas’ t-shirt.
Whether you’re struggling with your mental health, supporting someone who is, work in mental health or you’re just curious, Balmy Army reminds us that mental health isn’t just about individuals – and that community, care and creativity are some of our greatest ways to heal.
About Balmy Army
Balmy Army is a project made by people with lived experience of mental health struggles. You can expect content including all kinds of mental health and intersecting experiences. During each event, there will be lots of people to talk to if you find yourself with big feels.
Balmy Army is made by 40 young people from Greater Manchester, with the vacuum cleaner, Kevin Edward Turner, Lizzie Chapman, Toni-Dee, Caz Hughes, Evyn Seaton-Mooney, Rory Aaron, Rosalyne Norford, Gráinne Flynn, Cara Looij, Sascha Gilmour, Charlie Clark, HOME, Factory International, Contact, 42nd Street, Gorse Hill Studios and the Hope and Horizon Wards at Fairfield Hospital.
Suitable for ages 14+.
