Click here to see photographs and videos of the opening ceremonies
Mental Health Kokua brought “Fine Line: Mental Health/Mental Illness” – a documentary of voices, stories and portraits by Michael Nye – to Honolulu in May 2008 to promote awareness and increase understanding of mental health issues. This powerful exhibit focused public attention on mental illness, a public health issue that affects all segments of Honolulu’s community.
The Exhibit was shown at Linekona Academy Art Center (Honolulu Academy of Arts). The interactive exhibit is a documentary of voices, stories, and portraits that confronts stereotypes and reveals the courage and fragility of those living with mental illnesses. Photographer Michael Nye spent four years photographing and recording stories. Schizophrenia, depression, obsessive-compulsive, anxiety, and bipolar disorders are among the experiences considered. In simple and eloquent detail the 55 black-and-white portraits and voices draw the viewer closer into each life by addressing and exploring many topics: family, confusion, pain, abuse, treatment, and healing. Mounted below and between each portrait is a wooden box containing a CD player and instructions. Viewers can listen to each story with headphones. The stories range from 4 to 6 minutes each. The deeply personal stories take viewers inside complicated issues to places in the heart and mind where empathy and understanding begin.
Each face is an invitation to listen and learn. “Michael Nye’s exhibition, “Fine Line” is incredibly powerful and unbelievably moving. It connects you with each individual in such a personal way. These compelling photographs and intimate voices will educate and change minds.”
Frances Wise, Executive Director National Alliance for the Mentally Ill Mental Health Kokua hosted a public awareness event at Linekona Academy Art Center during the exhibit to promote mental health awareness and reduce stigma. The program included presentations by mental health advocates, mental health consumers, and Mental Health Kokua sponsors.
