SHADOW portraits of local men have appeared in venues across Northwich.
The wooden figures have been installed across the town, and in Ellesmere Port, to raise awareness of men’s mental health as part of a project called Breaking the Stigma.
Artist Mark Titchner worked with men in both towns to develop the concept.
The men shared that they often felt invisible, even in the presence of others, which inspired the artist to focus on the idea of shadows as a visual metaphor.
Cllr Lisa Denson, Cheshire West and Chester Council’s cabinet member for a fairer future (poverty, public health and mental health), said: "We’re delighted that volunteers from Mid Cheshire Community Shed have been able to fabricate these shadow artworks for the first phase of the project.
"Huge thanks to them for their expertise.
"We’re also really pleased to have so many venues come forward to host the 20 shadows over the next four weeks.
"Look out for them in leisure centres, libraries and more across Northwich and Ellesmere Port."
The shadows are accompanied by posters explaining the project and directing people to local and national crisis support services.
The installations aim to reduce stigma around seeking help during difficult life events.
Across the UK, men are three times more likely to die by suicide than women, a trend also seen in Cheshire West and Chester.
For more information about the project, email artswest@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk.
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