Harbour, Plymouth’s leading addiction support service, is using art to help the people of the city as a new mural on Mutley Plain by local artists welcomes people working through their addiction.
The colourful mural is next to Harbour’s Mutley Plain building, near the Seaton Barracks car park.
Harbour has a long history of saving lives, local artists Yvonne Hayes and Debra Purse, have drawn on their own creativity to give something back to those that have helped them in times of crises.
Debra reflects on her journey:
“I wanted to die. I worked with Hamoaze and Harbour and came out of addiction, gradually trusting the process and the staff, I never trusted anyone before.
“I applied to Plymouth College of Art for a BA Hons Degree and they accepted me! I could never have achieved this without the help and support I received”
“The mural shows a picture of a Harbour, the rest we named Starry Starry Plymouth after Van Gogh, the lighthouse represents the LGBTQ+ community, the houses represent the citizens of our city, the big white house is Hamoaze, and the greenery reflects Dartmoor.
“The mural also represents hope and is a beacon to everyone struggling at the moment.”
Yvonne had a troubled childhood and was raised in a cult like religion, she developed unhealthy ways of managing difficult emotions and stress. Alcohol became a part of managing long term mental health problems, which only exasperated the issues.
Yvonne reflects:
“I sought help from Harbour and later Hamoaze which became a lifeline for me. Whilst at Hamoaze they recognised a creative part of me, which they encouraged and without their support, I would not now be studying at degree level.”
If you or anyone you know needs support or you would like to find out more about Harbour its services, or how you can help, please get in touch at 01752 434343 or visit www.harbour.org.uk
