The Horton Arts Centre recently hosted its Summer Exhibition titled "State of Mind," running from August 1st to 21st, 2024. This exhibition is a remarkable showcase of public work, selected by a judging panel, featuring an eclectic mix of artworks by established artists, emerging talents, and first-time exhibitors.
A Memorable Private View
I had the pleasure of attending the private view of this exhibition, and it was an extraordinary experience. The evening was a delightful celebration of creativity, bringing together art enthusiasts, artists, and the community. Walking through the gallery, I was captivated by the diverse interpretations and imaginative expressions on display.
The Theme: "State of Mind"
The theme "State of Mind" acknowledges The Horton’s important heritage as a place of pioneering mental health care, located on the site of the former Horton Asylum Chapel. This theme provoked a creative response from the artists, many of whom have lived experiences of mental health conditions or have endured emotionally challenging situations. The artworks reflect a wide range of emotions, including peace, confusion, sadness, and euphoria.
An Eclectic Mix of Artworks
The exhibition featured an impressive array of works. From abstract paintings and intricate drawings to mixed media pieces, the variety was truly inspiring. Each piece was a testament to the artist's imagination and ability to convey deep emotions and thoughts through their art.
A Neurodiverse Artist's Perspective
As a neurodiverse artist, being part of this exhibition has been a profoundly affirming experience. I felt a genuine sense of belonging, knowing that my work was valued and appreciated alongside those of other talented artists. This exhibition has provided me with an invaluable platform to express my emotions and experiences through my art, connecting with others on a deeply personal level.
Touched by Kath Macdiarmid's Portrait
One painting that particularly moved me was Kath Macdiarmid's portrait of her father, titled "Dad's Dementia." This powerful piece was painted over a background of text representing his muddled memories and worries. It brought back poignant memories of my time as a carer looking after my dear friend Peter, who had Alzheimer's. The artwork beautifully captured the struggle and vulnerability of dementia, touching my heart deeply and reminding me of the importance of empathy and understanding in caregiving.
Connecting with Sylvia Igglesden's "ADHD"
Another painting that resonated deeply with me was Sylvia Igglesden's piece titled "ADHD." Created in response to her son being diagnosed as an adult with ADHD, this mixed media collage is vibrant and chaotic, mirroring the often turbulent inner world of someone with ADHD. Having recently been diagnosed with ADHD myself, I felt a strong connection to this artwork. It powerfully captured the complexities and energy associated with the condition, making me feel seen and understood.
My Entry: Inspired by Leonardslee Gardens
On a day when my mind was a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions, I decided to explore new places for painting inspiration and visited Leonardslee Gardens, hoping to find some peace amidst its natural beauty. With my brushes and watercolours in hand, I sought to translate my inner chaos onto paper. The scene that unfolded before me in the gardens became the perfect canvas to express my state of mind.
As I began to paint, the vibrant landscape of Leonardslee Gardens came alive with colours that mirrored the lively disorder within me. The trees, bold and dark, stood as silent sentinels against a backdrop of brilliant reds, pinks, greens, and yellows. These colours were not just random choices; they embodied my thoughts, emotions, and the sensory overload that often accompanies my ADHD.
The interplay between the dark tree trunks and the almost surreal background represented the constant dance between focus and distraction in my mind. The vivid reds and pinks symbolised the passion and creativity that flow through me, while the greens and yellows offered fleeting glimpses of clarity and calm amidst the chaos.
This scene at Leonardslee Gardens inspired me with its blend of natural beauty and vibrant energy, echoing my quest to find beauty and order in the midst of mental disarray. Each brushstroke was an attempt to make sense of the whirlwind inside my head, capturing the vibrancy I experience but often struggle to articulate. The forest, with its vivid palette and strong, grounding trees, became a metaphor for my state of mind—full of life, colour, and movement, yet anchored by moments of focus and stability.
Through this painting, I found a moment of peace, a way to express the complexities of living with ADHD. It is an invitation for others to step into my world, to see the beauty in the chaos, and to understand the intensity with which I experience life. This piece, fittingly themed “Leonardsley's Ruby Rapsody,” tells a story of finding harmony amidst disorder and clarity within the blur, inspired by the captivating beauty of Leonardslee Gardens.
#### Highlighting the Talent
It was wonderful to see the talents of both amateur and professional artists exhibited side by side. This inclusive approach allows artists from all backgrounds the opportunity to showcase their work, fostering a sense of community and shared appreciation for the arts.
Engaging with the Art
During the private view, I found myself drawn to the intricate details and the stories behind each piece. Conversations with some of the artists provided deeper insights into their creative processes and inspirations. It was fascinating to hear how personal experiences and states of mind influenced their work.
A Celebration of Creativity
The Horton Summer Exhibition not only highlighted the artistic talents within Surrey but also celebrated the healing and reflective power of art. The vibrant colours, thoughtful compositions, and varied techniques showcased the incredible range of human emotion and imagination.
Conclusion
Attending the private view of "State of Mind" was a truly enriching experience. The exhibition is a testament to the power of art in expressing and exploring the complexities of the human mind. As a neurodiverse artist, this opportunity has allowed me to share my unique perspective and connect with others in meaningful ways. Kath Macdiarmid's moving portrait of her father reminded me of my own experiences as a carer, and Sylvia Igglesden's "ADHD" piece resonated with my personal journey. My own painting, inspired by Leonardslee Gardens, encapsulates my state of mind and the beauty found in chaos. If you are in the Epsom area, I highly recommend visiting The Horton Arts Centre to immerse yourself in this beautiful and thought-provoking display of creativity.
For more information, visit [The Horton Epsom](http://thehortonepsom.org).
*Note: All images are courtesy of The Horton Arts Centre.*
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