The positive role of art in mental health recovery
A new exhibition at National Maritime Museum Cornwall (NMMC) explores the positive role art can play in mental health recovery. It features the work of Falmouth artist, Jane Southern.
She took up painting just five years ago as a way of dealing with a series of traumatic and sad events in her life. Encouraged by a friend, she began using the photographs she had taken of Falmouth, and the Cornish coast, as a source of inspiration.
The exhibition traces Jane’s progression from her earliest paintings to her most recent work, showcasing the techniques and confidence she has gained through attending art workshops across Cornwall.
It tells a relatable story of personal artistic struggle and growth.
‘It’s unusual to view an exhibition where the artist displays their first ever attempts at painting and how they improved by simply starting another painting after finishing the last one,’ explains Jane.
‘Attending a handful of workshops at Newlyn, the Cornwall School of Art, and one at St Ives certainly stretched me, but I am mainly self-taught and still learning, with every painting presenting different problems to solve.’
‘I never envisaged mounting an exhibition like this and am thrilled that the Museum decided to share and display my painting journey.’
‘I sincerely hope it inspires others facing difficulties and sadness in life and helps them find solace in the challenge of the creative process.’
Through Jane’s work, which is brought to life by personal insights and candid filmed interviews, visitors will gain an understanding of how she found the challenge of learning to paint to be a distraction from grief.
‘How Painting Changed My Life’ runs from today at NMMC. Jane Southern’s stunning seascape is captured by Ian Cross Photography.
‘Showcases the beauty of Falmouth and the Cornish coastline’
‘This exhibition is part of the Museum’s experimental and organic series of artist-led exhibitions created in response to the maritime world,’ says Richard Doughty, Director of National Maritime Museum Cornwall.
‘We’re delighted to host this emotional, engaging exhibition, which not only demonstrates Jane’s deep connection with art, but also showcases the beauty of Falmouth and the Cornish coastline.’
‘How Painting Changed My Life’ runs from Friday 30 January to Sunday 19 April 2026 at NMMC. The exhibition is open every day during museum opening times.
Breaktime News recently reported on the Surfing Memories exhibition held at NMMC.
