Off the Wall was an exhibition by four Mayo artists who completed a summer residency together at ATU Mayo Campus, which was formerly a Mental Health Institution.

My work for the exhibition included a sculptural installation Mindfullnest, and paintings all of which referenced the progression in treatment approaches to mental health in Ireland over the past century. It contrasted the long-term residential confinement within the former Asylum to the medical model of the St Mary’s Psychiatric Hospital. Finally the community approach of the Mayo Recovery College, which is hosted in the building, was explored. It encapsulates a more positive and holistic vision, based on the understanding that people can become mentally well again if given the right mix of supports, including techniques such as Mindfullness.