Finding healing and growth through art

The entrance of the exhibition. Photos courtesy of Healer Arts

Each of us has experienced unspoken worries while growing up. The grievances and frustrations quietly endured late at night, the complex emotions we longed to share but feared would be misunderstood... these thoughts were like tangled knots in our hearts, weighing us down.

A recent survey by the Institute of Psychology at the Chinese Academy of Sciences found that approximately 40% of Chinese high school students suffer from varying degrees of depression. 

A visitor snaps a photo of the art works on display.

Faced with academic pressure, troubles in interpersonal relationships, and uncertainty about their future, young people often harbor dark thoughts and tangled knots in their hearts that need to be seen, understood, and gently untangled.

Until Oct. 24, an interactive art exhibition in Futian District invites viewers to explore the psychological challenges people often face and offers tangible outlets and solutions.

The "Corners" series by Jenny Wu.

One section of the exhibition provides basic knowledge of psychology, teaching viewers to identify, respond to, and manage their own emotions. It also offers practical skills and methods to help those in crisis.

Another part of the exhibition encourages visitors to write down their puzzles and answer questions like, "Who would you turn to when you feel sad?"

"Dressing" by Zhou Yuhan.

The centerpiece of the show features 30 stories and paintings by a dozen young artists that address their past traumas from growing up in unhappy families, bouts of depression, tender memories of loved ones, generational gaps and misunderstandings with parents, and the difficult process of healing.

A collection of paintings by Tu Tan.

Curated by Healer Arts, the exhibition was organized by the Beijing-based Han Hong Foundation. It opened on Oct. 10, World Mental Health Day, and will run through Oct. 24. Admission is free to the public.

Hours: 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

Dates: Until Oct. 24

Venue: Hall 602, 6/F, Shenzhen Women and Children’s Center, Futian District (福田区深圳市妇儿大厦6楼602)

Metro: Line 2 or 9 to Jingtian Station (景田站), Exit C