Michelle Saunders and Jenny Koch are excited to begin another term of Art and Soul classes. 83606 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
By Lilly O’Gorman
ABOUT 100 people and counting have overcome depression thanks to two local women and some paint.
Berwick’s Jenny Koch and Michelle Saunders have developed Art and Soul, a program which aims to “overcome depression through art”.
The course uses art to explore thoughts that could lead to depression, anxiety and loneliness.
For the past three years, the pair have run their 10-week program at Pakenham’s Living and Learning Centre in Henry Street.
Each week, a different topic such as loss and grief, emotions and power and shame are covered in the two and a half hour session.
Michelle has completed pastoral counselling, and spent five years working in drug and alcohol rehabilitation.
She said her own “dark times” became the catalyst for the program.
“About five years ago I went through a really dark place and in the middle of that I found painting, and it changed my life,” Michelle said.
“I was in a hole. And as I emerged, Jenny and I got talking and thought it would be great if we could help people.”
Michelle said art took participants to a different place where they could forget their problems related to depression and anxiety.
“It just brings relief,” she said.
“One man’s wife had died three years before, and he had been an artist but wasn’t able to pick up a paintbrush since her death.
“Since painting with us he has had exhibitions of his work. We have had incredible stories.”
Jenny has been painting for many years. She won gold in the contemporary category of the Yakkerboo Art Show last year and her painting of Kings Canyon was bought by Cardinia Shire Council.
She said it was marvellous to see how the program had helped people a lot.
“You don’t have to be really severe (in your depression). It’s just life and we all have to deal with that stuff. That’s how we have targeted our talks.
“Art takes them to a different place, it’s quicker than talking things through at times.”
Michelle agreed.
“I just think it gives you some peace.”
The cost of the course covers materials and equipment and a final exhibition of the works.
For more information about Art and Soul email Michelle.kscope@hotmail.com
