This Saturday, the Von Winkle Gallery will transform into a vibrant, two-level haven of colour, creativity, and community in support of mental health awareness. The gallery—located in the historic Halifax Brewery Market at 1496 Lower Water St.—will host an immersive art event from 12-4pm that celebrates expression, unity, and the power of passion in shaping perspectives curated by its owner Jay Merriott.
Merriott says the event is about creating space for a different kind of conversation when we talk about mental health—one that doesn’t revolve around fixing people, but rather, around honouring them.
“Treat people like they are broken, and they believe they need to be fixed,” Merriott explains. “Sometimes all they need is a hug and a space to explore themselves.”
The Von Winkle Gallery, known for its bold pop art, imaginative plushies, statement clothing, and one-of-a-kind works, will showcase pieces that don’t just decorate walls, but also challenge ideas. Every corner of the space promises to be alive with purpose, personality, and the unfiltered voices of artists who believe in using their craft to say something meaningful.
“Art, as an artist, is a vehicle for social reflection,” says Merriott. “If we don’t talk about issues in our society, we will be forgotten.”
This inclusive, all-ages event will feature workshops and live experiences for attendees of all interests—whether you’re searching for a hobby, exploring a career in the arts, looking for stress relief, or simply in it for the fun. Among the creative lineup, Liam Hodder will provide live music and local photographer Issiac Photography will lead a hands-on photography workshop at the event. There will also be hair and beauty styling by Alexa Boudreault and professional makeup services by Takara Hamood. These creatives from across Halifax are pooling their resources to raise funds for the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia.
Whether you’re a seasoned artist, a lover of the arts or curious first-timer, the event is designed to spark passion and foster connection.
Kenechukwu Ibekwe a community support worker at the MHFNS, is happy that this event is happening. “Halifax is an arts town, and the mental health of artist is almost always overlooked,” he says adding, “artists are the future and community is the need of the hour.”
This was a sentiment eched by Merriott. “The future lies with those who fight for themselves and are hungry to be and do more,” Merriott says. “It’s important to build community—it’s important to bring people together.”
Merriott said that scientifically he is acting on Newton’s third law of movement. “Every action has an equal and opposite reaction.” According to him art and community building is exactly that, “the equal and opposite reaction, the resistance.”
As part of the event’s fundraising efforts, the gallery will host a 50/50 draw, where one lucky participant will take home $500, with the remaining $500 going directly to the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia. Tickets are $10, and can be purchased at the gallery; the draw will take place once all tickets are sold or by the end of the event on May 30.
Additionally, half of all art sales from the day will be donated to the cause—making every purchase a way to support mental wellness and advocacy.
This article appears in May 1-31, 2025.