Minnesota teens, through their art, spark conversations about youth mental health
In an insightful article by Andy Steiner for MinnPost, titled "Minnesota teens, through their art, spark conversations about youth mental health," the focus is on how two teens from Minnesota used their art to address and spark discussions around the mental health challenges their peers face, particularly in relation to social media.
Participating in Walgreens’ 15th annual Expressions Challenge, a national creative art contest, Emily Smerud and Seoyoon Jang, along with hundreds of other teenagers, expressed their concerns on pressing social issues through art. Smerud's work, "Fix It," emphasizes the importance of community support during mental health crises, while Jang's acrylic painting, "SNS — Social Media Never Stops," vividly portrays the overwhelming impact of constant online presence on young individuals.
The article dives deep into the personal motivations and messages behind the artworks. Smerud discusses how her art symbolizes the struggle of dealing with mental health issues in isolation and the critical role of opening up to others. Jang, on the other hand, reflects on the internet's addictive nature and its profound effects on self-perception and mental well-being. Both artists share their observations on the unique pressures their generation faces, exacerbated by the omnipresence of digital platforms and the unrealistic standards they perpetuate.
This narrative aligns closely with the goals of Arts for Everybody, an organization dedicated to ensuring equitable access to the arts and using creative expression as a tool for social change. By highlighting the therapeutic power of art in addressing and communicating about mental health issues, the stories of Smerud and Jang exemplify how young people can leverage artistic mediums to raise awareness, foster community support, and advocate for mental health. The initiative underscores the importance of providing platforms for young voices to be heard and the role of the arts in promoting mental health awareness and support, reflecting the core mission of Arts for Everybody to make art accessible and impactful for all.
For a more comprehensive understanding of the teens' art, their inspiration, and the broader context of their work in relation to youth mental health, readers are encouraged to view the full details in Andy Steiner's article on MinnPost's website: Minnesota teens, through their art, spark conversations about youth mental health, social media.
