Welcome to Breakthrough Art



Breakthrough Art is a community interest company that promotes positive mental health through the creative arts. The pictures on this website and the accompanying Reflections Magazine showcase the creative talents and art of people who have suffered mental distress.

Breakthrough Art was founded and run by Angie and Tony Russell. It develops and influences national policy on art and mental health, shares positive practice and develops an international network for anyone with similar objectives.

We hope you enjoy the art on show here.   All images are copyright and must not be reproduced without permission from the Artist.   If you would like to purchase or rent these pictures please use the Contact Us facility.

We would also like to thank Mike Farrar CBE - Chief Executive  of NHS North West for his support  which has allowed us to set up this website, and Roger Marlow of Health2Works for his practical help in making it happen.

*****PLEASE SEE DETAILS OF THE MOVING FURTHER FORWARD ON THE NEWS SECTION OF THE WEBSITE, AND OUR APPEAL FOR HELP FOR TONY'S PLANNED EPIC WALK *****

Tony Russell

Angie Russell

  • Discovering an interest in art gave me a sense of self worth and purpose to my life which I had not known until then.  Art allows me to express myself and makes me feel good to give pleasure to others through my artwork.James Trickett
  • Art has been a mirror to my mental state.  Five years ago, close to suicide in hospital, my paintings were very  dark.  Now, they reflect my recovery and new found positive optimism.Mat Turp
  • Art is calming.  Once in the flow of creating a piece of art it makes me feel better about myself.Amanda Rutter
  • I enjoy creating art – it is an important part of my life.Nigel Evans
  • I find art relaxing and I also like the thought that it may be displayed and that others will enjoy viewing it.Paul Nightingale
  • As a service user who uses photography as a coping strategy, I understand  the tremendous value that the creative arts have in enhancing the healing environment and aiding recovery.Tony Russell