ALBANY COUNTY — Six murals were unveiled this week as the start of the “Within Us” project, which seeks to use art as a catalyst for healing and discourse on mental health and suicide.

The project is funded by a $34,000 grant through Albany County’s American Rescue Plan Act program.

“Too often, our youth feel isolated in their own struggles,” said County Executive Daniel McCoy in a release announcing the project. “This project reminds them that their voices matter, their creativity has power, and their community is here to listen and support them. Art can break down stigmas, spark dialogue, and remind us all that we are not alone.”

As part of the first phase of the project, local artist Jade Warrick, who goes by TrashKiD Art, created the mural “Safety is Where I Find Myself.” This mural depicts how community support can help people who are struggling; those viewing the mural can write a word or phrase of encouragement for people who need it.

“Suicide awareness can be a dark or deeply sensitive subject, but it is one we must face with honesty and care — and it is a subject I personally have dealt with myself and with that I see that real change requires more than surface-level gestures,” said Warwick in the release.

“Too many of us struggle with fear, isolation, loneliness, the weight of perfectionism, imposter syndrome, and even hatred for who we are and how we may look like,” Warwick went on. “Projects like this remind us of the urgent need to bring back radical care and radical empathy — in creative ways — so that together we can build a healthier, more supportive, and more compassionate society.” 

The second phase of the project was launched at the Albany Center Gallery’s Second Annual Summer Art Fest in July. Artists BOOGIEREZ, Ramiro Davaro-Comas, Cara Hanley, Alicia Lea, and Kim Tateo painted moveable murals during the festival, with each design connecting to mental-health and suicide-prevention awareness.

These murals, displayed at the gallery, are to be placed throughout the community. Anyone interested in displaying the murals should contact Albany Center Gallery.

“Community art, especially in public spaces, has the unique ability to uplift, inspire, and invite conversation,” said Tony Iadicicco, the gallery’s director, in the release. “Our hope is that this project will resonate with people in personal and meaningful ways, encouraging discussions around mental health and those quiet truths we often carry within. We hope this project creates space for light, reflection, and a sense of hope.”