For many in the region, heading out to catch a wave is one of the greater things in life, and it’s not hard to see why. Time slows down when you’re riding a wave, you don’t really think about anything and the rest of the world just vanishes, and of course there’s tonnes of the physical and mental health benefits. It can boost heart health, help coordination and balance, strengthen muscles, burn calories, boost moods, improve mindfulness, and it can even be a form of treatment for depression, stress, anxiety, insomnia, and even post-traumatic stress disorder.
That’s what inspired Ocean Mind, a not for profit charity that provides therapeutic surf courses for young people who are experiencing mental health issues, disabilities or social isolation.
The program uses a mix of surf therapy and mentoring to create a therapeutic environment for young people to challenge themselves, learn new skills and develop and strengthen relationships with family, friends and the broader community.
Now Ocean Mind has teamed up with six legendary surfboard shapers and artists to launch Art Unleashed, a very special online art auction created to raise funds to support the organisation’s ground-breaking work to transform the lives of young people experiencing mental health challenges.
Donating their time, materials and talent, the surfboard shapers – Babel Boards, Corey Graham and Varuna (Maurice Cole) – have teamed up with talented local artists – Erin Reinboth, Xanier Davies and Natalie Martin – to create three stunning custom boards which are ready to be experienced. Our favourite is the collaboration by Corey Graham and Xanier Davies that combines Graham’s fun and funky shapes with Davies’ flare for skateboard graphics and skulls.
“Ocean Mind is committed to changing young people’s lives through surf therapy. We’re thrilled to be launching our very first art auction fundraiser, Art Unleashed, and to be collaborating with an amazing team of legendary surfboard shapers and renowned artists,” Racheal Parker, CEO and founder of Ocean Mind revealed.
“Art Unleashed is an incredible opportunity for three lucky people to add a unique piece of surf art to their quiver, and support Ocean Mind’s life-changing work.”
Online bidding for these iconic surfboards is open from now until 3pm on Saturday 27 June. Place your bid here.
