Kristy Lynch says she discovered her painting ability shortly after becoming legally blind.
“I decided to do some painting one day and my sister said ‘wow, that’s good – like seriously good’. It was as if the universe took my sight and gave me another talent instead,” she said.
Kristy says art has played an important role in her Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) recovery and mental health journey, especially while living at the Haven Foundation’s social housing with support residence in Bendigo (VIC).
“Painting has helped me process emotion. I’m a good communicator, but not when it comes to my emotions, so painting has helped me process grief and form connections with others.”
Kristy is preparing for her second solo exhibition, to be held in Castlemaine (VIC) later this month. The exhibition is set to showcase her powerful creative practice, which channels emotion, resilience and life’s challenges into colour, texture and stories.
The 39-year-old says she has mixed emotions about publicly exhibiting her paintings.
“It’s lovely to hear the praise and have people show up for you, but it’s a vulnerable position to be in. In a way, it’s like people reading your personal diary… my heart and soul is on display for all to see,” she said.
She says the best part about living at a Haven residence is the Mind staff who go above and beyond to support residents.
“Living at Haven has supported my mental health in ways that I didn’t expect. The staff have played a huge role in helping me stabilise, create again, and work toward achieving my own mental health goals,” she said.
Kristy’s exhibition is being held on 29-30 November and 6-8 December at Lot19 McShanag Drive in Castlemaine (VIC). The exhibition reflects nature’s strength and cycles of renewal – a reminder that even in the hardest seasons, growth is possible.
