Yayoi Kusuma: Life is the Heart of a Rainbow

“Since the dots are so infinitely many, my life has been a constant struggle to create my art” – Yayoi Kusama

Perhaps one of the biggest inspirations in mental health and art is Yayoi Kusama, the 88-year-old “Polka Dot Princess”. Throughout her life, she has used art to “overcome dark days”.

Like Kusama, we at Center Pottery seek to help our mental health patients overcome their dark days through the art of pottery. Where Kusama uses her dots to stamp out her demons, our participants use clay to mold and shape their thoughts and emotions, channeling them into something positive, visual and useful.

The forgiving nature of clay also helps immensely – a crooked handle or dented bowl is not ugly, but characteristic and unique. With clay, it is easier to see the brighter side of life, something we strive to ensure our participants see as well.

The National Gallery is currently hosting a selection of Yayoi Kusama’s works from 9th June 2017 to 3rd September 2017, so do check it out if you’re interested!

And when you feel inspired after your visit, you can always head on down to our classes page to find out more about what we offer.