Free university-level arts courses are being offered by Griffith University to people living with mental health conditions in Brisbane, from March 2025.
The eight-week courses will be taught by university tutors and are designed to foster creativity, build confidence and develop new skills through songwriting and storytelling, acting or studio drawing.
Named ‘Mosaic’ to reflect the coming together of diverse pieces to create a cohesive, vibrant, and impactful whole, the program is open to adults currently receiving support for their mental health, with a desire to engage and learn.
Program Director, Associate Professor Jane Fowler said the education focus, rather than a traditional patient health focus, represented a new way of working in mental health.
“Mosaic will provide access to education for people who might otherwise not see it as a possibility,” she said.
“Students will be able to fully engage in the process of learning while being immersed in the university environment, in this case the world-class facilities of the Queensland Conservatorium and Queensland College of Art and Design.
“The courses are shortened versions of normal first-year courses, but without any assessment involved.”
Mosaic students can enrol in one or more of the following introductory courses from Trimester 1, 2025, which require no prior experience:
Songwriting and Storytelling
Wednesdays, 1pm–3pm (March 19 – May 14, 2025)
This course explores storytelling through songwriting, guiding students in song structure, lyric development and creative self-expression.
Creativity Through Acting
Thursdays, 2pm – 4pm (March 20 – May 15, 2025)
Students will engage in improvisation, teamwork and creative problem-solving, enhancing confidence and communication skills.
Studio Drawing
Fridays, 1pm – 3pm (March 21 – May 16, 2025)
An introduction to fundamental drawing techniques, using materials such as graphite, charcoal and ink, aimed at developing creative skills and appreciation for the art of drawing.
Additional courses will also be available from Trimester 2, 2025 and beyond.
For more information about these free courses or to register your interest, visit the Mosaic website or email [email protected].
