One Million Stars Project to hold creative day at Belvedere
One Million Stars (OMS), the national project that was introduced to Westmeath by Mullingar Mental Health Association and Mental Health Ireland, is holding a “health, wellbeing and arts event” this weekend.
The project is supported by Westmeath Public Participation Network (WPPN). It is a community arts project that has brought different groups together to weave eight-pointed stars representing light, hope and solidarity against domestic abuse and all forms of violence.
Finola Colgan of Mental Health Ireland said: “There has been a phenomenal response to it across the county.
It was an ideal project that supported people to stay connected during the challenging times that existed during Covid-19, while at the same time highlighting the issue of domestic abuse and the available supports.”
Finola has worked with Julia Smyth of Mullingar Mental Health Association to promote and co-ordinate the project; they distributed the ribbon to groups and facilitated star weaving workshops.
WPPN supported circulated information on the project and secured Belvedere House Gardens and Park as the venue for the event this Saturday, May 7, with the support of the county council.
Brigid Geoghegan, WPPN and Healthy Communities LDO, added: “This will be a fun family day out, with a focus on health, wellbeing and arts. It’s on from 11am to 4pm and it is free. It will include an information village, star weaving workshops, live entertainment, guided tours, nature walks and fun exercises, along with access to Belvedere House Gardens and Park.
“A huge thank-you to everyone who has assisted in getting the event together including star weavers, stand holders, tour guides and entertainers.”
The Star Art exhibitors include resident associations, family resource centres, libraries, ICA guilds, National Learning Network, HSE Mental Health groups, TEAM, Soroptimists, active retirement groups, Tidy Towns, Comhairle na nÓg and individual star weavers. There will be 4000+ stars on display.
Julia Smyth said: “Star weaving is a gentle way to bring people together to promote connection and wellbeing through creativity. It has a positive effect on mental health, reduces isolation, builds resilience, is good for brain health (learning new skills) and keeps people in touch with their communities while raising awareness of the need to end violence in society.”
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