The Drug of art x make it flow
The Drug of art
At 'The Drug of Art,' we believe in the power of creativity to heal, inspire, and uplift the human spirit. Inspired by Alison Lappers’ own personal journey and the tragic loss of her son, Parys, we are on a mission to make a difference in the lives of young people facing isolation, loneliness, and the daunting challenges of mental health. The COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated these issues, with a 25% increase in anxiety and depression, especially among our youth. The need for mental health support is greater than ever, yet funding for children's mental health services remains shockingly low, with a staggering 134% increase in demand.
Through our comprehensive education programme, which includes in-person workshops, online masterclasses, podcasts, and exhibitions, we strive to provide a safe space for young individuals to reconnect with their creative instincts. We are passionate about nurturing their curiosity, ambition, resilience, and intuition. Our workshops are carefully designed to empower these young minds, enabling them to unlock their creative potential.
'The Drug of Art' is an arts charity founded on the principle that the arts should be accessible to all. We firmly believe that engaging with one's creativity is not only a healing practice but also a transformative one that fosters personal growth. We are committed to inspiring individuals to explore their inner worlds, express their emotions, and embark on journeys of self-discovery through artistic expression.
The Drug of Art podcast, hosted by Alison Lapper, invites artists from across the nation to share their experiences, demonstrating how art can serve as a tool for exploration, understanding, and healing of one's mental well-being. Their discussions offer inspiration to all generations, showcasing how emotions can be channeled through various artistic processes and mediums.
'The Drug of Art' is an advocate for the healing, inspiring, and uplifting power of creativity. We aim to make a difference in the lives of young people, helping them navigate the complexities of modern life while fostering a space for self expression through the arts.
Alison lapper
Alison Lapper, born in Burton-on-Trent in 1965, is an artist whose extraordinary life journey has been marked by her unyielding spirit and profound artistic expression. Alison spent her childhood in specialist institutions due to having phocomelia, a condition that left her born without arms and with shortened legs. Alison's determination led her to embrace life with unwavering resilience.
Graduating from the University of Brighton in 1993 with a degree in Fine Art, she later received an Honorary Doctorate in 2014, maintaining her connection with the institution as an alumni. Additionally, Alison is a full member of the Association of Mouth and Foot Painting Artists (AMFPA).
In 2003, Alison was awarded an MBE for her invaluable contributions to the world of art. Her life has been a continuous engagement with disability awareness and acceptance, as she has been both the subject and presenter of numerous documentaries. Notably, she co-presented 'No Bodys Perfect' with Rankin for the BBC in 2016 and starred in 'Passions: William Blake by Alison Lapper' for Sky Arts in 2017.
A prominent public figure, Alison frequently shares her life experiences through inspirational talks and visits to schools and colleges, fostering conversations about diversity, acceptance, and body image.
In 2000, Alison's life reached a pivotal moment with the birth of her son, Parys. This moment also led to her collaboration with sculptor Marc Quinn, resulting in the iconic and controversial statue 'Alison Lapper Pregnant.' Displayed in Trafalgar Square for 18 months in 2005, the artwork sparked widespread public debate and advanced disability awareness.
Tragically, on August 13, 2019, Parys passed away due to an accidental drug overdose. Alison transformed her grief into a powerful force for change, advocating for individuals struggling with their mental health and fostering connection. Her latest project, 'The Drug of Art,' embodies her commitment to making a difference. Following her own connection with the power of art for healing, she initiated the project, which has since evolved into an arts charity. In her role as a trustee and artist facilitator, Alison empowers young people to break free from their comfort zones and discover new forms of creative expression using their mouths and feet. ‘The Drug of Art’ serves as a platform for healing and self discovery through creative workshops. Alison's life stands as a testament to the power of resilience, art and advocacy, she continues to inspire and impact lives through her work with this arts charity.
