Hammersmith, Fulham, Ealing and Hounslow Mind (HFEH Mind) welcomed the London Art Exchange (LAX) to the Circle last month.

The Circle is Mind HFEH children and young people's Crisis Prevention Hub and Cafe in Ealing where the official handover of the donation in support of mental health took place. 

The art piece 'Bear Club' is a special commission by LAX from artist Jakob The Artist, a British visual artist who started out several years ago and is taking the art world by storm.

Jakob's art is lived experience and has only recently de-masked his face to his fans on social media, as was his signature style since launching his career.

The creator had a passion for art since he was a young child and is now fulfilling his dream of being a full-time artist and is a big believer in promoting positive mental wellbeing, say Mind HFEH. 

Jakob said: "With my bear series I wanted to do something completely unique and create a standalone piece of hanging art that had sculpture and tapestry influences.

"Hundreds of plush toys were collected and selected to be individually hand sewn to the canvas and in places to each other to create a pleasing collage of furry friends.

"It's very fitting to be handing this piece over to the HFEH Mind charity as all bears used are a collection from charity organisations in my local area, all having a unique life behind them.

"I wanted this project to be very fun and playful, bringing out that childish side in the viewer, a one of one piece telling its own story never to be replicated the same."

Created in January 2023 'Bear Club' is one of two hand sewn pieces comprising of multiple plush toys by British Artist 'Jakob The Artist' (credit: HFEH Mind).

'Since You Came Along', a piece by Mr. Phantom from his Lost Lullabies Collection" evokes a poignant blend of innocence and melancholy through the image of a small, forlorn puppy tethered to a bright red balloon.

The puppy, named Bruno, is Mr. Phantom's dog, given to him after his adoption.

The stark contrast between the black-and-white figure of Bruno and the vibrant balloon suggests a world where joy and sadness coexist.

The red balloon, a symbol of hope and childhood wonder, seems to lift Bruno from his desolate surroundings, hinting at the transformative power of love and companionship.

Mind say this piece beautifully captures the notion of finding light in the darkest places, portraying how even the smallest beings, like Bruno, can bring a sense of warmth and hope into our lives. 

A second artwork, 'Since You Came Along' as part of his 'Lost Lullabies Collection', was generously donated by anonymous Artist 'Mr. Phantom' (credit: HFEH Mind).

"Donating my artwork to HFEH Mind through the London Art Exchange has been an incredible experience, admitted Mr. Phantom.

"HFEH Mind's dedication to helping folks with mental health issues is top-tier.

"They do everything from giving solid advice and local support to pushing for better mental health policies, making a real difference.

"When I heard about LAX's fresh approach to showing art while supporting artists, I knew I had to jump in.

"Unlike other galleries, LAX mixes artistic vibes with genuine support, creating a unique and safe space for artists.

"Their support has been amazing, and I'm hyped to be part of such a caring and innovative project," he continued.

The artworks are highly valued and have the potential to generate significant funds for HFEH Mind through an auction which will take place on World Mental Health Day in October (credit: HFEH Mind).

HFEH Mind say it will look to tour the artworks around local schools in the area, coupled with creative workshops.

The charity want to shed light on the vital work its mental health support team's and wellbeing team's carry out in their local schools.

The tour will culminate with an auction to coincide with World Mental Health Day on 10 October 2024.

Julie Pal Chair of HFEH Mind commented: "We are thrilled that LAX have made this generous donation to our charity and support the link between mental wellbeing and art.

"Raising the profile of mental health is a key priority of ours and with the help of LAX we can do just that and carry on the vital work in our communities."

LAX is dedicated to promoting the work of underrepresented artists. Their gallery was founded with the goal of creating a more diverse and inclusive art world, one where artists from all backgrounds to have the opportunity to showcase their talent and connect with art enthusiasts and collectors from around the world.

LAX said: "As a team, the London Art Exchange is thrilled about the collaboration with HFEH Mind. We see this as a pivotal opportunity to engage with and support their incredible work.

"HFEH Mind's dedication to providing mental health resources aligns seamlessly with our goals to make art accessible and therapeutic.

"We are committed to continuing this partnership through innovative outreach programs and other engaging opportunities that benefit their service users and the broader community."

HFEH Mind will use the proceeds from the auction to help fund the vital work they carry out across Hammersmith, Fulham, Ealing and Hounslow.

Fiona Reddick Director of Children and Young People's Services at HFEH Mind, added: "Like all of us, children and young people sometimes need additional support with their mental health, and all of us need the right tools to look after ourselves and navigate our mental health.

"At a time of increasing mental health crisis, this partnership will help raise vital funds and awareness to support children and young people in our area."

HFEH Mind will use the proceeds from the auction to help fund the vital work they carry out across Hammersmith, Fulham, Ealing and Hounslow.  

To find out more about HFEH Mind, click here.

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