In a bid to commemorate the International Stress Awareness Day themed ‘Promoting mental wellbeing and effective stress management in workplaces and communities,’ Oluwaseun Dosunmu, a renowned Nigerian UK-Based arts, culture and wellbeing accelerator hosted a Sip and Paint event in partnership with UnseenArt by Ladi and other prominent artists and creatives in Bradford, West Yorkshire.
The event attracted diverse influential artists and creatives including musicians, visual artists, professional dancers, talent managers, poets from Manchester, Leeds, Aberdeen, Halifax and Bradford.
In addition to the Sip and Paint, there was an art exhibition by Elizabeth Ebisemiju, a mental health visual artist, and a wellbeing dialogue that allowed artists to speak openly about mental health, stress and the need to effectively manage stress.
In a discussion with Dosunmu, also the founder of The Care Inn Centre; a dynamic hub in Bradford that combines a spa with a centre for arts exhibitions and culture immersion and enlightenment said, “we have identified behavioural patterns among artists and creatives, that we often neglect our physical health and mental wellbeing because we are heavily invested in our craft.
“We don’t rest enough; struggle with unhealthy sleep patterns, work round the clock and regularly overstressing our bodies and minds.
“It is essential to take breaks and prioritise our wellbeing especially with relaxation spaces and activities that promote creativity, community and rest – this is why we have organised this Sip and Paint event for artists to unwind, express emotions through art pieces and have a safe space and community to talk and get emotional support.
“It also why I took the bold leap to start The Care Inn Centre which aims to help advance artists’ wellbeing, promote their arts, and culture in West Yorkshire, United Kingdom.
Other artists in attendance shared their views about the need for artists to prioritise their wellbeing and effectively manage stress.
Oladipo Fadairo, a Creative Artist at Unseenart by Ladi said that too often, artists neglect their own wellbeing in pursuit of perfection.
According to him, our bodies and minds are the instruments of creation , they need care too. Painting or drawing helps us slow down, reflect, and breathe.
“Rest, movement, and mindfulness keep creativity alive, and this is the reason I have partnered with Dosunmu, and The Care Inn Centre in Bradford because Sip and Paint events are safe, joyful spaces for people to relax, create, and connect.
“Art heals best when we do it together one brushstroke at a time – Art isn’t just expression, it’s healing, this is what I have learned from hosting sip and paint events across the UK from Manchester to Bradford, Bolton, London, Scotland Aberdeen and Glasgow,” he said.
Elizabeth Ebisemiju said the “Sip and Paint” event was a resounding success, bringing together art lovers, wellness enthusiasts, and community members for an evening of relaxation, creativity, and connection, saying that the event blended painting, music, and mindfulness in a warm, uplifting atmosphere.
Guests praised the experience as both soothing and inspiring, describing art as a pathway to stress relief and mental wellbeing.
Beatrice Iwuoha, a General Nurse, said Artists and creatives in the Diaspora must realised and accept that the societies now operate differently from what they’re used to.
According to her, this shift often leads to a sense of disorientation, especially for those coming from environments where silence is mistaken for strength or resilience.
“We must begin the process of unlearning some of these deeply rooted beliefs and understand that, like every other race, we are not immune to mental health challenges or stress.
“It’s advisable to speak up, seek help, and prioritise our well-being,” Iwuoha said.
Joachim keke aka Jojomanii, a professional dancer said as artists and creatives; it is important to prioritise our wellbeing because we constantly put in a lot of work, and energy to performances which stresses our bodies and leave us exhausted most times.
He said, “It is important for artists to rest, exercise, keep fit and endeavour to always be in the right space of mind”.
Oluwatimilehin Ogunleye aka TYM, a Musician said the Sip and Paint event was a vibrant and healing space that brought artists and creatives together through art, self-expression, and community, reminding how creativity can connect and uplift us, especially within the African diaspora.
“Record labels, event organisers, and media outlets must recognise that mental well-being is as vital as vocal training or stage lighting. Mental health education, confidential therapy access, and peer support networks could save lives and careers.
Ultimately, caring for the mental health of artists is not just a personal issue — it’s a cultural one. By breaking the silence, we can build a music industry that doesn’t just create stars, but sustains them,” he said.
The event’s unique mix of arts exhibition, massages, and games created an unforgettable reminder that creativity can heal, unite, and restore balance.
