CATHARSIS

Art Exhibition by Dalia Courridge

Private Viewing: Thursday 26th October 2023 | 5:30pm - 8:00pm

The Crypt Gallery, The Close, Norwich NR1 4DD

I began my journey into painting just two years ago

Art has always held a special place in my heart, something I deeply admired and valued. For me, abstract art transcends mere aesthetics; it's a profound exploration of emotions and associations. What's truly fascinating is that they are unique to each individual, making abstract art a personal experience.

I started painting for my mental health. Anxiety is a constant presence in my life, but things changed when I picked up a paintbrush and started using colours on canvas. In the world of abstract art, which might look messy at first, I found a comforting place.

Every stroke of the brush, even if it seemed random at first, became a way for me to show the inner chaos I felt. It felt cathartic, and felt like my emotions were coming to life on the canvas, not as a burden, but as a way to set them free.

Creating art for me isn't just about expressing my inner struggles; it's also about making something new. Painting became a safe haven where I could forget about my daily worries. It was like meditation, a way to escape the noise of anxiety.

As I started finishing my first paintings, I realised they allowed me to convey feelings that words couldn't capture. The act of creating art helped me explore and understand myself better. When I paint, emotions don't need to follow any logic; they simply flow onto the canvas. It's a place where I found the most honest way to express what's inside me.

This exhibition marks my first and perhaps only solo show.

It's a deeply vulnerable experience for me, as it involves sharing my raw emotions and feelings, which are typically quite private, with the public. I'm opening a window into my soul, inviting you to see the world through my eyes and to experience the emotions that have guided my artistic journey over these past two years.

I invite you to join me with open hearts and minds. My aim is to start positive conversations about mental health and self-expression while raising much-needed funds for Priscilla Bacon Hospice.

Priscilla Bacon Hospice Charity

In 2016, the Priscilla Bacon Hospice Charity started with a big goal: raising funds for a new hospice near the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital on an 8-acre site. They launched a £12.5 million appeal in February 2019.

Fast forward to February 2022, thanks to the incredible generosity of individuals and organisations, they broke ground on the new Priscilla Bacon Lodge. Just a few weeks ago, in September 2023, the hospice welcomed its first patients.

Priscilla Bacon Hospice works closely with the Norfolk Community Health and Care NHS Trust to enhance patient and family experiences. They go beyond the basics, providing a comprehensive bereavement service, special equipment, improved catering, patient and family transportation, and maintaining beautiful gardens. I am very excited that they are also planning to introduce art and music therapy. These additions enrich the care journey before, during, and after a loved one's passing. Additionally, they support groundbreaking research, education, and training to improve the provision of care not only at the Lodge but throughout Norfolk and beyond.

The 500 Club

The 500 Club is a community of local businesses and organisations working together to support each other, whilst pledging their support for the Priscilla Bacon Hospice Charity. Currently, there are over 150 club members who pledged various levels of fundraising. So far, collectively, the 500 club members have raised just over £62,000 for Priscilla Bacon Hospice.

As a Silver member, I pledged to raise £1,000 to support the charity's incredible work. By attending my art exhibition and considering purchasing some of my artwork, you become a vital part of this effort.

It is a ticketed event (due to capacity limitations), but it is absolutely FREE to attend. Enjoy a glass of bubbly on arrival as you browse the exhibition and network.

I am very excited and hope to see you there. In the meantime, follow me on Instagram @bydalia.art to see what I get up to and to see more of my work.

All the best,

Dalia x

Photos by Rob Dodsworth at Brand Story Studio (thank you!)