Beautiful Distress

This publication is one outcome of the ‘Beautiful Distress Art Manifestation on Mental Illness’, which took place in Amsterdam in the fall of 2017. Its pages include the exhibition catalogue, a conference report, and several related texts. Essentially, it asks how we can establish a layered an nuanced perspective on mental illness through art and with the help of artists. Art appeals to emotions and intellect, encourages looking at things differently, and can raise awareness of our own prejudices and judgements. Artists’ residencies at one of the largest mental health institutions in the Netherlands over the last 20 years have helped to facilitate this dialogue.