Mindfulness Monday: The Mental Health Bell Workshop Series

In this Mindfulness Mondays special series, we will learn and reflect on the history of the Mental Health Bell. We will then use the art of hand building with clay to create our own bells that convey our personal responses to mental illness. Participants will be invited to display their completed bells as part of a mental health themed exhibit during the month of May. The Mental Health Bell Workshop is a 3 part series.

Workshop One: March 14th, 5pm to 6:15pm: We will learn the history of the Mental Health Bell, forged in 1953, as a symbol of hope for people impacted by mental illness. Participants will be guided in a series of expressive writing and sketching activities to help them craft their own messages of challenge and of hope. What do you want the world to know about how you and your loved ones have been impacted by mental illness? Participants will begin to envision their own mental health bells. Suggested materials: Paper, pen or pencil, drawing materials.

Workshop Two: March 21st, 5pm to 6:15pm: Led by ceramicist Liz Lubansky, participants will be instructed in the art of hand building with clay to create their own bells, and select glaze colors. Participants will then deliver their sculpted components to the MHAEM Montclair Offices, so they can be kiln fired and glazed. Glazed pieces will be returned to participants before workshop 3:

Workshop Three: April 18th, 5pm to 6:15pm: Participants will be guided in constructing their sculpted bell components into a completed piece.

Workshops will be conducted via zoom. Required materials (clay, clapper, and textiles) will be provided in advance to each registered participant. Participants will be asked to pick up their individual kits from the MHAEM Offices at 33 S. Fullerton Ave, Montclair NJ, or from the Newton IFSS Offices.

Please register for detailed instructions to rfolzenlogen@mhainspire.org.