Supporting artist wellbeing through conversation, connection, and care
Mental Health for Artists is Axis’ annual event season dedicated to the wellbeing and self-care of artists and creatives.
Mental Health For Artists
Each year we bring together artists, curators, writers, and therapists to share new perspectives on mental health, offering practical tools, honest discussion, and space to reflect.
- 5 Seasons
- 25 Events
- 1000+ Participants
What to Expect
Since launching in 2022, the programme has grown into a valued fixture in our calendar, creating a supportive space to explore the systemic, personal, and intersectional challenges that affect artists’ lives.
Each season features a series of free online talks and Q&As covering:
- Personal experiences of mental health in creative practice
- Practical strategies for sustaining wellbeing
- Inclusive conversations on how to make the art world a healthier, more equitable place
Events are open to all and designed to be welcoming, accessible, and relevant to artists at every stage of their career.
If you are struggling, please know that support is available (see resources at the end of this page).
Why We Do This
We know the unique pressures artists face - financial insecurity, isolation, lack of recognition and the toll these can take on mental health. Our aims are
- Challenge stereotypes around artists and mental health
- Support sustainable practice by sharing tools and approaches that help artists navigate challenges
- Foster openness and care within the arts community
How It Works
- Curated events: Talks, workshops, and panel discussions led by artists and specialists.
- Resources: Articles, guides, and toolkits to support mental health year-round.
- Community: A growing network of artists committed to care, mutual support,
Past Seasons
The programme builds on the insights and connections of previous years.
2025 highlights: perfectionism in art, networking for the socially anxious, somatic approaches to wellness, equitable curating, and finding your audience.
2024 season
Burnout and creative care, listening as a form of support, pleasure and queerness in textile practice, grief and artistic renewal, and returning to art school later in life.
Join Us
The next season launches in February 2026. Event details will be announced in January.
Need Support?
If you feel that you’re in immediate danger of seriously harming yourself, Please:
- Call 999
- Go to your nearest Accident & Emergency (A&E) department.
If you would like to talk to someone who is trained to listen, these organisations are here for you:
- Samaritans: Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) or email jo@samaritans.org
www.samaritans.org
- Mind Infoline: Call 0300 123 3393 (weekdays 9am–6pm) or email info@mind.org.uk
www.mind.org.uk
- Shout: Free, 24/7 text service. Text Shout to 85258
www.giveusashout.org
If you're struggling and need ways to cope, Mind has resources to help:
Helping Artists Keep Going
Axis is an artist-led charity supporting contemporary visual artists with resources, connection, and visibility.