Exploring the powerful link between art and men’s mental health

That’s the message of a new booklet which has been created by Hartlepool men for Hartlepool men in partnership with Hartlepool Art Gallery in a project made possible by the support of the Art Fund.

The initiative has used the art and legacy of John Wilson McCracken – an artist who lived most of his life in the town and worked in the Gray Art Gallery – to engage men in conversations about mental health and creativity, with the aim of reducing stigma and fostering connections across the community.

John McCracken’s art, shaped by his personal experiences with mental health, reflects the strength and challenges faced by men in our community.

Hartlepool Art Gallery partnered with Andy’s Man Club – which offers free man-to-man support in Hartlepool and across the country - to create a 12-page booklet called ‘What’s On Your Mind, Mate?’ that introduces John McCracken’s work and explores the powerful connection between art and mental health.

The booklet highlights how art can be a powerful tool for self-expression and emotional wellbeing and includes reflections from the local men who’ve taken part in the project.

Importantly, it also signposts readers to local mental health support services, including online support community Togetherall and Hartlepool Community Hubs, ensuring that those in need can easily access help.

Andy’s Man Club members will be distributing the booklet to popular venues across Hartlepool and surrounding areas and it can also be downloaded at www.hartlepool.gov.uk/whats-on-your-mind-mate

Councillor Pamela Hargreaves with (left-right) Max Ferreira, Russel Gadbury, Jason Cook and Richard Wilkinson.

Councillor Pamela Hargreaves, Chair of Hartlepool Borough Council’s Economic Growth and Regeneration Committee, said: “It’s never been more important for us to talk about our mental health and share how we are feeling, but unfortunately that’s something that men in particular have difficulty doing.

“This remarkable booklet will hopefully encourage them to do that, reminding them that they are not alone and highlighting the support available, and we are very grateful for the Art Fund’s support.

“Building on the success of this project, we’re delighted to have been awarded a Reimagine Grant from the Art Fund to continue and expand it.

“This next phase will deepen the Art Gallery’s engagement with the community by introducing new workshops, exhibitions, and opportunities for creative collaboration, ensuring that John McCracken’s art continues to inspire and support mental health awareness.”

Andy’s Man Club member Richard Wilkinson said: “I never thought art was for me, so working on something like this wasn’t something I’d done before, but being part of this project has been a game-changer.

“Sharing my story alongside John Wilson McCracken’s art has helped me process my feelings and feel less alone.

“I hope men who pick up this booklet see that it’s okay to open up and that there’s support out there. If this helps even one person take that first step, it’s been worth it.”

To find your local Andy’s Man Club, visit andysmanclub.co.uk.