ABC’s Space 22 asks if creativity can support mental health care

Space 22, a new six-part Australian-first documentary series, explores the impact art and creativity can have on mental health. Led by singer and performer Natalie Bassingthwaighte, who has faced her own mental health challenges, the series premieres on Tuesday 17th May at 8pm on ABC TV and ABC iview.

Amidst Australia’s worsening mental health crisis, Space 22 looks at the growing call for art as a social prescription to support mental health care.

The series follows seven strangers, each with their own lived experience of mental ill health, as they take part in an ambitious experiment to test if the simple act of creativity can help heal invisible wounds.

Supported by psychotherapist Noula Diamantopoulos, the participants will be joined by three well-known Australian artists. Mixed media artist, Abdul Abdulla, sets a first challenge designed to expose the group’s vulnerabilities. Archibald winner, Wendy Sharpe, offers a new way to express confronting emotions through painting. Finally, performing legend Eddie Perfect brings his unique skills to help participants express their thoughts and release pent-up emotions through song writing and singing. Observing the group from a distance, researchers from the Black Dog Institute measure the mental and social impact of each challenge.

Space 22 participants

Host Natalie Bassingthwaighte said: “The transformation of the participants during the experiment was incredible. They came in a little reserved about it all, to leaving with new creative tools that, not only do they enjoy doing, but more importantly have improved their mental wellbeing. Plus, through sharing their experiences they’ve created lifelong bonds. I have caught up with a few of them since the show, it’s so lovely to have shared the experience.

“My hope is that the audience is inspired by the positive impact being creative can have and decides to give it a go for their own mental wellbeing.”

Space 22 is an original BBC Studios ANZ production for the ABC.