Finding a haven from darkness

Ghosts, by Gabriel, is included in the book Ponderings.

The association between art and mental illness is well-documented. Those tortured, eccentric individuals known almost as much for their inner struggles as their artistic talents include Judy Garland, Sylvia Plath, Ernest Hemingway, Kurt Cobain and Janet Frame.

The therapeutic value of art is also recognised and for many it is their foremost mode of expression - Janet Frame's talent for writing saved her from a leucotomy and extended electro-convulsive treatment.

Trevor and Jane (who wish to remain anonymous) suffer from mental illness and have found a haven that accepts their personalities and encourages their artistic talents.

Toi Ora Live Arts provides a safe and creative space in which they can express themselves in a variety of mediums, including visual art, printmaking, music and creative writing.

As well as providing classes, Toi Ora holds exhibitions, has artists in residence, and publishes students' work. The latest publication, Ponderings, is a vibrant collection of poetry, prints and paintings.

The publications, which have vastly improved in quality over the years, give students a sense of pride and accomplishment.

Trevor, a schizophrenic, has been with Toi Ora since it was established in 1995. Three of his poems are in Ponderings and he designed the Toi Ora logo. "I have always been into art, although I couldn't see the connection between art and being ill," he says. "Toi Ora has given me a place to slot into."

Softly spoken and articulate, Trevor's range of artistic ability includes drawing, poetry, video, music and photography.

He is making a documentary about the Hikoi in the Park, an event that marked International Mental Health Day.

Trevor is lucky to be alive - as testified by one of his poems, The Journey Across the Bridge. It is about his experience of standing on Grafton Bridge struggling with inner voices urging him to jump.

Yet he prefers not to dwell on the subject or any similar instances. Representing painful experiences through art "allows me to move on", Trevor says.

Judith White has been tutoring the creative writing class at Toi Ora for three years and her own published work includes Visiting Ghosts and Across the Dreaming Night.

She emphasises the positive influence the creative process has on her students.

"People with mental illness often feel marginalised and have trouble expressing themselves. Art is one way they can express themselves safely."

White uses "triggers", themes which provide direction and a framework that students can work within. These could be a colour or an external object, or students could be asked to relate to a personal experience.

White's tactics are evident in Ponderings, where some artwork is overtly personal, some objective pieces and some highly symbolic.

Trevor acknowledges the importance of White's influence in the workshops: "Without her we wouldn't have any direction. She is very helpful and knows what she is talking about."

White explains that the theme is set mainly by the class as some students are private or shy and don't want to create anything personal. For some, it is just too painful.

Fellow artist Jane also finds support from Toi Ora and likes the safe, structured environment. Jane is a private person who prefers not to write about her personal life, but enjoys reading her work to the class and appreciates constructive criticism. "That's how you learn - by your mistakes," she says.

White says many artists at Toi Ora are hesitant to delve into their darker nature, afraid it will lead to a period of depression. "They have already been there and don't want to be taken back. It is usually the people who don't experience mental illness who think it's interesting to explore the dark side of the psyche."

Exhibition

* What: Ponderings, published by Toi Ora Live Arts, $20

* Where: Contact Toi Ora (09) 360 4171