Over 4,000 attend Basingstoke outdoor mental health arts festival
Organisers say it's the UK's leading event of its kind
Last updated 20th Sep 2021
More than 4,000 people have attended an outdoor mental health arts festival in Basingstoke, as it makes a return.
All in the Mind was launched as a free event in 2016, and organisers say it is now the leading outdoor mental health arts festival in the UK.
The free event in Glebe Gardens saw a series of specially selected arts performances, including immersive craft activities, happiness tests and bespoke poetry.
Artistic Director Leigh Johnstone said, “We are so pleased with how successful the event was. After such a long time spent living with restrictions, being able to get out in the fresh air, connect with audiences and perform for people of all ages was a true joy.
“We have really enjoyed seeing people come together and enjoy a day out with their family or friends, explore the different areas of the festival and just sit in nature for a few hours and feel good. The whole team works incredibly hard to bring together the festival each year and I am so proud of all of us, and each of our very talented performers, for making it such a wonderful event. We’re already excited about next year!”
Organisers say the festival exists as a platform to celebrate the power of the arts in improving mental health, and gives artists a safe and supportive platform to try out new ideas, share their work and be heard.It makes connections, bringing individuals, families and communities together to take part in something collectively.