Events
The 20th Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival (SMHAF) will take place from 19 October to 8 November 2026, exploring the theme of Reflections. We also host events throughout the year.
You can explore all our events below and search by date, location, artform, type or keyword. If you would prefer to read our digital brochure, you can download it here.
Reflect, Reclaim, Reimagine
An exhibition showcasing visual artworks by Kelly Zou, Mairi Timoney, Nat Ophelia Walpole, Steven Jones and Jasmine Esme, responding to our 20th year theme Reflections.
International Film Awards 2026
Join us in our landmark 20th year to celebrate award-winning cinema from Scotland and across the world. Hosted by Raisah Ahmed and followed by a reception.
Beth Wants the D
An exclusive performance of Beth May’s award-winning, candid and very funny autobiographical comedy about living with bipolar disorder, followed by a Q&A with the creative team.
Writing Awards 2026
Join us at the Tolbooth in Stirling for a live literary showcase and our annual prizegiving, inspired by this year’s theme, Reflections, and hosted by poet Len Pennie.
Gartnavel Royal Summer House Residency
Project Ability artists and inpatients from Gartnavel Royal Hospital reflect on ideas of comfort and disturbance in nature, with visits to the Gartnavel Summer House and gardens.
The Postcard Project
Join Mindspace for a series of friendly, informal creative sessions as part of the Scottish Mental Health Arts Festival 2026.
Carrick Festival Of Light 2026 — Lantern Making Workshops
Witness a lantern parade winding through Girvan to the shore, where a fire performance takes place with fire sculptures, drawings, light and sound.
Raison d’être
Coco explores the seven deadly sins through bold colour and playful portraiture, inviting us to reflect on identity, emotion, desire and the complexities of being human.
Stuart Low
Sharp geometric forms contrast with the fluid beauty of flowers, exploring reflection through structure and spontaneity in this exhibition by Stuart Low. Together, the works consider balance, growth and change.
Reflections of Belonging
Join artist Syrraa Ali for a free series of creative mixed-media workshops exploring identity, belonging, memory and wellbeing through painting, collage and texture.
