Art students to participate in It’s OK To Say campaign

Art students at Oaklands College will be working closely with Stacey Turner to further generate awareness of the It’s OK To Say and highlighting mental health and wellbeing. 

Students Emily Norton and Amber Giddings (pictured with Stacey Turner) are currently studying a National Diploma in Art and Design and will illustrate key areas of the It’s OK To Say website. 

Coinciding with Mental Health Awareness Week between May 18-24th, Emily and Amber will also contribute to a forthcoming art exhibition, focus around raising awareness for mental health within the wider community. 

Higher National Diploma Programme for Art and Design Ruth Mitchell said: “The students have a brief starting in the new year which has the theme of art, design and wellbeing and Year 1 will be focusing on individual wellbeing. I am wanting to use the exhibition as a focus for the work they may produce, it fits really well.”

Amber said: “I’m very excited to be working on this project, it’s a new opportunity that will open doors for all of us, and what Stacey is doing is such an amazing cause and I am so proud to be working with her and once again thank you so much for giving us this opportunity!”

Emily added: “I’m excited to be working on this project and I’m glad to be educated on the wonderful work this team is doing.”

Lauren Vassell Leighton, lecturer in photography said: “As a teacher I am aware of the importance of students being involved in community led projects that demand social change which is why we are so happy to be working with It’s OK To Say. Mental health affects most people at some stage in their life, and as teachers we also see the effects it has on our students.