How Niagara University Students Are Using Art to Spark Conversations About Mental Health

What happens when students take the lead in addressing one of the most pressing issues of their generation? At the Castellani Art Museum of Niagara University, "Where No Words Exist" demonstrates the power of art to amplify conversations about mental health. Curated entirely by Niagara University students enrolled in the fall 2024 Introduction to Museum Studies course, this groundbreaking exhibition runs from now through March 9, 2025.

The exhibition, curated by 17 NU students under the guidance of professor Ellen M. Owens, delves into the reflections about mental health, illustrated through art from CAM's fantastic collection. It features a diverse selection of works, from the frenetic painting of local Jonathan Rogers to the boundary-pushing self-portraits of Ellen Carey and familiar gestures captured by Tom Wesselmann. Together, these pieces explore the spectrum of emotions tied to mental health, creating a space where personal experiences and shared understanding intersect

"This exhibition isn't just about viewing art-it's about engaging with it in a way that makes mental health struggles feel seen, heard, and supported," said the student curators. "Art offers a way to express what words sometimes cannot." Students designed the exhibition with other students and youth in mind, noting the challenges with seasonal affective disorder (SAD), end of semester deadlines, and the holiday season. They note social media's links to the decline in the mental health of young people and even offer contact information for free counseling services.

To deepen this experience, "Where No Words Exist" goes beyond traditional exhibitions with an immersive and interactive environment. Visitors will encounter soothing music that fills the gallery, a coloring station featuring designs inspired by the artworks, and art therapy activity decks and stress balls to encourage relaxation. An interactive wall invites visitors to reflect on the people or moments that have inspired and supported them, fostering a sense of community and connection through hand-written notes.

By combining these innovative elements with introspective and sometimes bold artwork, the student curators hope to destigmatize mental health challenges and showcase the therapeutic power of creativity.

The exhibition aligns with Niagara University's mission to engage young people in meaningful, transformative educational experiences and furthers CAM's mission to bring people together to inspire dialog, creativity, and learning. The Introduction to Museum Studies course is a general education class that is also part of the Art History with Museum Studies Program, which promotes the scholarly study of art, culture, and museums, while providing practical work experiences at CAM.