Balmy Army

I’m currently working in collaboration with Tara Brown as Critical friends/researchers for Balmy Army - a new art, activism and mutual care project for young people in Greater Manchester struggling with their mental health. Led by artist and mental health activist the vacuum cleaner, the project runs in partnership with HOME, Manchester International Festival, 42nd Street and Contact Theatre, amongst other organisations.

Tara and I are supporting reflective practice throughout the project and researching how Balmy Army creates scaffolding to support young people to lead on change in mental health care. We’re also researching the histories and landscape of youth-led mental health activism.

The project will culminate in an exhibition and space for action at HOME in summer 2023 for three months, as part of Manchester International Festival.

Image drawn by Charlie Clark