Art exhibitions
Xanthe has had two solo art as therapy exhibitions, both made possible by mentoring of local artists. A grant paid for art materials and gallery fees (see bottom of page for more information about grants).
Her first exhibition, Spinning Orbit, in 2018, was a 'ridiculous' goal, to give a reason to stay alive. This was when she was struggling with a severe mood disorder (bipolar disorder) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from trauma. The exhibition was a collection of process paintings, such as the painting, Spinning Orbit, below, which expressed how her mind felt in a bipolar mania episode.
Her second solo exhibition was in 2020, called Speak.
Her first exhibition, Spinning Orbit, in 2018, was a 'ridiculous' goal, to give a reason to stay alive. This was when she was struggling with a severe mood disorder (bipolar disorder) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) from trauma. The exhibition was a collection of process paintings, such as the painting, Spinning Orbit, below, which expressed how her mind felt in a bipolar mania episode.
Her second solo exhibition was in 2020, called Speak.
Spinning Orbit, painted without a paintbrush, inspired the goal of an art exhibition
sPeak exhibition
Media article from the New Zealand Herald, 2020
Several of the paintings in the Speak exhibition had bird and flight themes. Xanthe destroyed some of the paintings after the exhibition but most flew to good homes (sold some, gave the rest away).
first solo exhibition for mental health
Media article from Stuff National, 2018
Group Exhibitions
Xanthe has entered one or two artworks into several community group exhibitions. The largest display of her paintings was at the Art Expo in 2024, a group exhibition from local artists. She is hoping to build up enough art to exhibit again.
Video setting up for the exhibition (actual colours are more vibrant):
Video setting up for the exhibition (actual colours are more vibrant):
Funding in New Zealand for local arts projects
If you are in New Zealand, there are grants available for creative arts and culture (which can make participating in the arts in the community possible for those on low incomes). Enquire with your local council about partnerships with funding for creative projects (whether as an individual or a group,- visual arts, performances etc). Xanthe chose the Creative Communities Scheme (CCS).
