Stunning Waterford mural for Pieta House aims to raise discussion around mental health issues

A giant seven-story wall drawing has been unveiled in Waterford with the aim to provoke awareness and discussion around mental health issues.

The piece, entitled ‘Ar scáth a chéile a mhaireann na daoine’ (‘we live protected under each other’s shadow’) was created by Roscommon artist Joe Caslin and is part of the Waterford Walls International Street Art festival.

It was presented in collaboration with the A Lust for Life, social enterprise movement for wellbeing and also marks the opening of the new Pieta House in Waterford City.

Waterford Walls festival looks to bring colour back to the city by transforming derelict buildings. Mr Caslin's mural sits on the abandoned Ard Rí Hotel in Waterford which overlooks the city.

Speaking about his work, Mr Caslin said, "I want people to look up at this drawing and find hope. The drawing is installed to confront stigma, to question how we find our moral compass, to challenge us to build resilience but, above all, it is a symbol of support.

Pic: Peter Grogran/Emagine

"With the recent opening of Pieta House in the city, I felt it was an ideal time to create this drawing in Waterford and with the support of many partners and my incredible team."

Co-founder and director of A Lust for Life, Niall Breslin (aka Bressie) said Joe Caslin is an ideal collaborator for his wellbeing movement.

"Joe’s ability, through his immense talent as an artist to capture the essence and mood of a social energy is a true illustration of how symbolism, art and imagery can impact and facilitate a cultural shift and become a strong foundation for a new conversation.

"We are humbled to be a part of this powerful project."

Brian Higgins, Pieta House CEO said the need to destigmatise mental health issues has never been more important.

"The only way we can ever close the doors of this house, which is our ultimate ambition, is by each and every one of us addressing the stigmas that impact on us and, in turn, being aware of the punches that we can land on other people that make them fall and being conscious not to do that.

"Art helps to spark the discussion that breaks down this stigma and through our collaboration with Waterford Walls, A Lust for Life and Joe Caslin, we hope to make a difference in people’s lives."

A massive thanks to @georgescourt for generously sponsoring @joecaslin's work at #ArdRi for #WaterfordWalls pic.twitter.com/RzxAdi3nGN

— Street Art Ink (@StreetArtInk) September 9, 2016

Waterford Walls will donate 10% of the proceeds of September's sales from their online shop to Pieta House.

People affected by mental health issues are encouraged to seek help by speaking to a friend, family member, GP, therapist or free confidential helpline as the Pieta House 24/7 helpline at 1800 247 247 .  Samaritans helpline is  116 123 or email  [e-mail] .