“We are delighted to present our 13th Mental Health Arts NI programme of events for 2026. It’s been an exciting time. We have relocated to the Duncairn, expanded & rebranded!
We have expanded our team; launched two new initiatives: our Hidden Narratives and New Works Commission; established a Research & Development Panel; and rebranded from NI Mental Health Arts Festival to Mental Health Arts NI. While our festival will remain a key event in our annual program, we are more than just a festival–we are a movement.
Our theme this year is ‘Belonging,’ a feeling or sense of being accepted, valued, connected to people or place. A fundamental human need. You are welcomed as your true self in a group, community, or environment. It is a sense of holding an integral place in a system, family, school, work, community or a physical setting. True belonging is not having to hide aspects of your identity or conform to expectations to fit in. It is vital to feel connected to others, this gives life purpose and meaning.”
View or Download the programme from the link below.
