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.


Pause, Reflect and Create
These uplifting and inspiring creative writing workshops are centered around the theme of Reflections, encouraging participants to slow down, pause, and explore their thoughts, memories and experiences.

Hidden Worlds — Workshop
Take time to reflect on who you are and who you want to be with this family friendly workshop that combines origami, decoupage and layered paper art techniques.

Through The Lens — Nature Walks
Join Lanarkshire Links for nature walks where we will be using disposable cameras to capture pictures and creative groups to recreate pictures through poetry, sketching and paint.

Banter Bits, Bowls & Pots
A fun, hands-on ceramics workshop where creativity meets good chat. Guided by an experienced maker, you’ll shape your own unique pieces while connecting with others. No experience needed.

Airdrie Art Connection
Airdrie Art Connection invite you to their first ever exhibition, featuring work made by local, amateur artists. Browse original pieces and learn more about the artists and their vision.

Hidden Worlds — Exhibition
This exhibition brings together painting, collage and textile work created as part of an MA project exploring reasonable adjustments for chronic illness and mental health.

Deep Fried Film Festival
Celebrate 20 years of the Deep Fried Film Festival with a special screening of independent films, followed by a Q&A with filmmakers exploring the theme of Reflections.

The Story We See
Join us for a supportive and inspiring six-week creative journey in rural Lanarkshire, using photography, art, words and film to explore your experiences, emotions and everyday moments.

Through The Lens — Creative Workshops
Join Lanarkshire Links for nature walks where we will be using disposable cameras to capture pictures and creative groups to recreate pictures through poetry, sketching and paint.

Bloom Behind the Mask — Smyllum Community Hub
Step into a creative space of colour, flowers, and self-expression in this dual-sided floral mask workshop. A fun, welcoming session for all, encouraging creativity, conversion and positive wellbeing.