Art Heals is the debut solo show by award-winning textile artist Nicola Davis from Trowbridge.
It opened at The Pound Arts Centre in Corsham on Thursday, January 22, and explores themes of mental illness and recovery through raw, personal storytelling.
The exhibition features a centrepiece made from more than 500 empty mental health medication blister packs contributed by people in the community.
The work aims to highlight the lack of NHS support for mental health issues and how Nicola felt she had to ‘reach crisis point’ in order to receive support.
The centrepiece includes a broken fire alarm with ‘SOS’ written above the smashed glass.
Other works include a 2-meter-wide batik painting on cotton with the words ‘Love The Body You’re In’ surrounded by a rainbow of colourful figures, prints and patterns.
A recovered anorexic, Ms Davis has spent the past decade fundraising for the eating disorder charity Beat, with many of the works focused on body positivity and self-acceptance.
Some pieces are being sold to raise money for the charity.
The exhibition runs until February 21 and also features contributions from the Trowbridge Service Users Group, a mental health support group offering art therapy, friendship and a safe space to talk.
Mark Marshall from the group said: “Art Heals highlights the importance of creativity, community, and lived experience in supporting mental health, and Trowbridge Service Users Group is proud to be part of this inspiring collaboration.”
Ms Davis will be present at the exhibition on January 31, February 9, 14 and 21.
