photo credit: Ali Like Dykstra
The unique Human Weighted Blanket project by Montreal-based, British-Canadian artivist Joshua Oliver (a.k.a. Red Jay) that aims to provide relief to pandemic-related mental health suffering.
The captivating video component of the project, brought to fruition with the support of the NFB’s Filmmaker Assistance Program, is now available to watch
And of course, the in-person ‘cuddle therapy’ event will take place on World Mental Health Day (Oct 10) for free at WIP Gallery on St-Laurent blvd: www.eventbrite.ca/e/human-weighted-blanket-video-launch-platonic-touch-therapy-offering-tickets-168962646825
Having struggled with mental health himself, Red Jay felt the need to create the piece after hearing alarming statistics linked to loneliness & isolation, on the rise during the past year and a half. With personal contact being severely restricted during the pandemic, the Human Weighted Blanket is actually made up of human platonic touch therapists: professional somatic body workers, massage therapists and professional cuddlers. The video follows the journey of 3 Montrealers – suffering from mental health issues that were exacerbated by the pandemic – throughout the day as they share their surprise cuddle therapy experience & the event will feature the same professionals offering a skillful, caring touch to all Montrealers!
