Project: Shrink

Project: Shrink is a FREE performance poetry project open to young adults/adults over the age of 16. SHRINK's aims were to bridge the gaps between stigma and creative opportunities and for this reason, there was no upper age limit. The project commenced every Saturday from the 11th October-29th November, 2014 between 1-3pm, consisting of 8 weeks of workshops with guest tutors from the poetry industry, sharing different skills, techniques and resources for writers of all abilities. There was no experience necessary. the tutors also focused on developing voice and performance skills with the focus of the workshops on addressing different aspects of stigma within mental health. Participants of all connections to mental health were welcome, be it through personal experience, family, friends, work, or encounter. The final poetry installation was performed at our confirmed venue at the Hoxton Basement in London, where friends, family, and people from health, media and music professions were invited to attend. With established UK artists opening and closing the night, live and acoustic performances, this project was successful in being suitable and relatable to the youth and elderly. After the live installation, a short Q&A session with a chosen panel of special guests, representing stigma in each profession was hosted. This was the chance to hear other people's opinions, ask questions and offer your suggestions on the future of mental health as we know it.