A NEW exhibition at Salts Mill in Saltaire will challenge the stigma of mental health.

The 1in4 art exhibition will begin on October 6 and continue until World Mental Health Day on October 10.

Gallery Two at Salts Mill will showcase innovative and thought-provoking artwork created by people who have experience of mental health issues - and will promote the benefit of art in promoting good mental health.

Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust has organised the exhibition to reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness and encourage people to talk openly about issues that can affect everyone.

The trust says one in four people are affected by mental health every year, and many experience low moods, anxiety and stress at some point in their lives.

Artist Roy Lilley has spoken openly about his own mental health problems and will feature digital art work as part of the exhibition alongside health professional and photographer Terri Porrett whose mother had dementia.

A film featuring people sharing their personal stories of mental health will also be showcased during the exhibition.

Paul Hogg, the NHS Foundation Trust secretary, said: “As the local provider of mental health services, we are always looking at new ways to tackle stigma.

“The numbers and quality of artwork has been so impressive but it is also the personal stories associated with how people use art as a wellbeing tool that will interest people.

“We hope that everyone who visits Salts Mill will think about art and mental health long after World Mental Health Day itself.”

Visit saltsmill.org.uk for further information.