First Fortnight presents the Mental Health Art & Culture Festival, a collection of events aimed at destigmatising mental health through conversation with experts and artists alike. The 2022 edition will take place both virtually and in person.

In its 11th year, the free Mental Health Art & Culture Festival features events from across disciplines. With workshops headed by Galway based sculpture artist Glenn Gibson and a Mental Health Reform panel on Britney Spears; the festival explores a range of subjects. A space is curated for open conversation on topics such as artistic expression and the impact of Covid-19 lockdowns on creativity.

"The last two years has opened the conversation around mental health in new ways," said Maria Fleming, CEO of First Fortnight. "The crucial question for First Fortnight is how the conversation has changed, if at all, in relation to the stigma attached to mental ill health."

Other events include a live interview with the Love and Courage Podcast, seeing Ruairí McKeirnan in conversation with Senator Lynn Ruane, a presentation by Riverbank Arts Centre in Newbridge hosted by mental health advocate, writer and broadcaster Keith Walsh with conversations and performances from musicians Sive, Dafe Orugbo (AKA Max Zanga), Hally and Freya Monks, and several live productions at Smock Alley Main Space in Dublin.

"From its inception over a decade ago, First Fortnight was envisaged as a sort of light in the dark," said Fleming. "And so, in 2022 against a more darkened backdrop than usual, we promise a bright and brilliant line-up."

In the light of new Covid restrictions, several events have been adapted to an online format, with a few postponed. All related updates can be found on firstfortnight.ie.

Moving through is a film about pushing forward, making change happen, adapting to life and moving through barriers. It documents 3 distinct but connected art pieces that the members of the Gateway Mental Health Project created

Free. Online Register here: https://t.co/8dmBHi6n0W pic.twitter.com/lNKpJGp6eg

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