Psychart24, the 24-hour painting marathon, took place again in Szeged

NewsEvents

Oct 7

The 14th Psychart24 painting marathon was held at the SZTE József Attila Education Center (TIK) in Szeged from noon on Friday, September 27, until noon on Saturday, September 28, 2024.

All equipment for painting was provided free of charge and everyone was welcome to join the art marathon during these 24 hours.

Psychart24 is a successful anti-stigma program run by the Moravcsik Foundation. It provides a safe space for individuals with mental illnesses to create art alongside those who do not share the same conditions. The program offers an opportunity to experience the joy of creation, create value, and foster mutual acceptance.

Each year, the event brings together patients and healthy people, adults and children, amateurs, hobbyists, and professional artists from across Hungary to create in an environment free of prejudices. This year, Psychart24 was held in 7 cities: Budapest, Debrecen, Szeged, Pécs, Békéscsaba, Kalocsa, and Kecskemét.

In Szeged, the painting marathon took place with varying intensity, with about 80% participation compared to last year or the year before. Prof. János Kálmán, head of the SZTE Department of Psychiatry, summarized the event, stating that 220 participants painted 236-240 pictures during the 24 hours. Generally, about 80% of the participants are university students, and many people returned, including familiar groups and faces, which was a joy to see, the professor added. This year's event did not include pottery as opposed to last year, but the organizers are considering bringing it back in the future.

Following the art marathon, a traveling exhibition showcasing artworks selected by an expert jury will open at the end of 2024. The first exhibition will be held at the Budapest Art Brut Gallery.