With the assistance of fifty community members, Co Mayo-based artist Tom Meskell developed the Silva Lumina - Lights of Growth.

The First Fortnight Mental Health Art and Culture Festival, in its 13th year, commissioned the after-dark experience.

The festival began on Friday and will include films, panel talks, poetry readings, exhibits, concerts, and stage shows.

The schedule is a “warm, inclusive, educational, and immersive cultural kick start to the new year,” according to Maria Fleming, chief executive of the festival.

She continued, saying that stigmatisation simply makes those who are struggling with mental illness more distressed and hurts their friends and family.

According to research, creating art may raise one's quality of life, promote mental wellness, and decrease cognitive decline.

“Interpersonal relationships can be enhanced, stress can be reduced, trauma can be healed, memory and neurosensory abilities can be increased, and art can impart insight.” Through cultural activity and the arts, we hope to dispel the stigma.

The Office of Public Works and the National Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin have partnered to present the Silva Lumina.