Brian Hagberg
WARREN, Pa. – As they near graduation, it’s fair to say most high school students have heard, repeatedly, about the importance of keeping physically fit.
Warren Area High School senior Paige Rafalski wants people to know the importance of keeping mentally fit as well. And she’s using her creativity to spread that message.
Rafalski was one of six students across Warren County whose work was chosen to grace billboards purchased by CORE (Choosing Openness Regarding Experiences) for Mental Health Month. Her piece merges both the physical and mental aspects of health.
“I knew I wanted to include something about the brain and how mental health is just as important as physical health when I started this project, but I wasn’t quite sure how to incorporate it into a piece of artwork,” Rafalski said. “Although the brain controls emotions, many people also associate them (emotions) with your heart, which is why I wanted to include that as well.”
Rafalski merged the two organs, then bound them with Band-Aids to demonstrate that the brain can be wounded just as easily as the heart.
“When brainstorming ideas, I really liked the concept of band-aids because they symbolize a physical injury, and my hope was to show that mental illnesses deserve just as much attention and care,” she said. “I have always been intrigued by the way the brain works with the rest of the body and how the connection affects each person differently. I love to paint and was inspired to do this project when I thought of the idea because I wanted to have a chance to encourage others to let go of the reproachful attitude toward mental illness that is seen too often.”
When CORE presented the opportunity to participate in an art contest for Mental Health Month, Rafalski jumped at the chance.
“CORE challenged the high school students to come up with their own messages for Mental Health Month through art which was judged and winners from each school were chosen to have their artwork displayed on the billboards,” CORE founder Kari Swanson said.
“I wanted to participate in this project because I love the message behind it and I think it is a great opportunity to shed light on a tough subject,” Rafalski said.
Though it may be a tough subject, it’s one Rafalski hopes people will be inspired to start tackling.
“Many people lack awareness, education and empathy toward others with mental health issues, which can lead to a disconnect and feelings of shame or isolation,” Rafalski said. “When people feel this way, it can prevent them from getting treatment. This is why I think it’s important to end the stigma and discrimination that surrounds mental illnesses, and instead support those who feel trapped and alone.”
While Rafalski’s work was one of six chosen to appear on a billboard, all the entries can be viewed around Warren County.
“In addition to the billboards, CORE has secured store windows from McKissock, Total Evolution, the old Phase 2 and Beacon Light to display all of the entries received during the month of May,” Swanson said.
Rafalski’s hope is that the art, whether seen on a billboard, in a storefront, or online, will spark a discussion.
“When people look at my painting, I hope it can start conversations about mental health and help people realize its importance,” Rafalski said.
Though this is the second time Rafalski’s work will appear on a billboard (she was one of CORE’s contest winners in 2020 as well), she thinks the excitement of seeing it will be just as big.
“When my artwork was displayed on last year’s billboard it seemed very surreal,” Rafalski said. “But also super exciting! I think it will feel the same way this year.”
