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Nat Hardy’s exhibition, ISM – Art with Heart, is now open at Arts Centre Washington and explores her personal journey of addiction and recovery, capturing both the challenges and moments of beauty she has found along the way.
Ms Hardy, winner of the 2024 Spotlight Washington Open Exhibition, said: “I became an alcoholic about five years ago, but I’ve had an unhappy relationship with alcohol for much longer.
“My piece, The Journey, represents my experiences of using a 12-step programme for recovery.
“Each section chosen reflects my thoughts and feelings in my journey of recovery and how they relate to the 12 steps.
“The mountains and sky relate to future visions.”
A former social worker, Ms Hardy is now a self-taught artist working across multiple mediums including needle felting, wet felting, textiles, watercolours, acrylics and pastels.
In total, the exhibition features more than 30 pieces.
She describes making art as a therapeutic process.
She said: “I’m neurodiverse and can sometimes just feel overwhelmed.
“But when I’m working on my art, I don’t have to think, I’m in another, better world.
“There’s such a stigma about alcoholism – people think about brown paper bags and being passed out on a park bench, but it’s not like that.
“It took me to some very dark places, and I was hospitalised before starting my recovery.
“I’m just so grateful that I’m still here and enjoying what I’m doing.”
Colour and the natural world are both central themes in her work.
She said: “Colour plays a central role in my practice, and I am never more at peace than when I am creating.
“Art has supported me throughout my life, and now it forms an essential part of my recovery and self-expression.
“I am passionate about inspiring others to explore creativity, particularly those who believe they ‘can’t do art.’
“My practice runs alongside a 12-step programme, using art as a way to process, question, and make sense of difficult conversations around addiction, trauma, mental health, and healing.
“My work often carries layered meanings and quiet symbolism.
“Rather than offering fixed answers, I aim to create space for the viewer to ask questions and form their own interpretations.”
Matt Blyth, culture and heritage officer at Arts Centre Washington, praised the exhibition.
He said: “Nat’s artwork is stunning and we’re delighted to be hosting her exhibition.
“Her artwork reflects her personality – bold, brave and with great purpose.”
Nat Hardy: ISM – Art with Heart is on display in the main exhibition space at Arts Centre Washington until Saturday, June 6.
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