Canvas Clash: A Creative Exploration of Mental Health at GH Raisoni College of Engineering & Management, Pune
On October 4, 2024, the Peer Counselor’s Club of GH Raisoni College of Engineering & Management, in collaboration with the DIY Club, organized an engaging and thought-provoking event titled "Canvas Clash." Held in Room No. 322 of the E Building from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM, this event was part of the institution’s observance of Mental Health Week. The primary objective was to encourage students to explore and express their creativity while reflecting on crucial mental health topics. With mental health challenges increasingly affecting young adults in academic settings, Canvas Clash aimed to address these issues through artistic expression.
Students from various departments participated by creating posters that focused on different aspects of mental wellness. The artworks addressed essential themes such as effective coping mechanisms for managing stress, self-care practices, and the importance of seeking help when facing mental health issues. These posters served as visual representations of the students’ perspectives on mental health, fostering open discussions about its significance. The event was led by Peer Counselor Gagan Tawari, along with dedicated members of Batch 3 of the Peer Counseling Club, who played a crucial role in ensuring the event's smooth execution. After the completion of the posters, a final showdown was held where the best artwork from each group was evaluated by a panel of judges, including faculty members and peer counselors. The winning entries were praised for their originality and the depth of thought they conveyed, showcasing the remarkable dedication and talent of the students involved.
The success of Canvas Clash can be attributed to the hard work and teamwork displayed by the members of the Peer Counselor’s Club, Batch 3, who tirelessly inspired creativity among participants. The event was coordinated by Mrs. Surabhi Pranav, a Counseling Psychologist, whose collaboration with the DIY Club was instrumental in merging the creative and psychological aspects of mental health awareness. Through this collaboration, students were encouraged to engage in meaningful conversations about mental well-being through the medium of art. In conclusion, Canvas Clash was a resounding success, effectively combining creativity with mental health awareness. It provided a platform for students to express their thoughts on mental health, contributing to the broader goals of Mental Health Week. The event reinforced the importance of maintaining mental well-being through artistic expression, and its success was made possible by the motivation and inspiration provided by Campus Director Dr. R. D. Kharadkar. Events like Canvas Clash are vital in fostering a positive, supportive, and empathetic campus culture, ensuring that mental health remains a priority for both students and faculty alike.