Art exhibitions have always been a wonderful way to explore the work of others. However, ‘Inspire to Inspire’ was more than an exploration of work; it was a celebration of Joshua Van Leader’s
legacy.
“The world is full of magic things, patiently waiting for our senses to grow sharper.”
Joshua spent his early years in his birthplace, Leeds, before moving on to spend time in Adelaide and developing his love for men’s fashion, later starting a fashion degree in San Francisco and building his brand – ‘JVL’. During his time there, Joshua underwent surgery for a concave chest that later led to chronic pain and addiction.
Owing to his health, Joshua moved back to England and began his journey in art. Throughout the next five
years, he carefully curated a collection of artwork inspired by the ocean, helping to combat his depression. He wrote books and three volumes of poetry, whilst in the process of producing a
documentary to raise awareness of mental health.
Joshua lost the battle with his mental health and passed away in 2022.
After his passing, Joshua’s family dedicated their time to sharing his art and ensuring his life’s work lives on. Thus, ‘Inspire to Inspire’ was born.
“You are exactly where you should be.”
The exhibition, hosted in a New York Square in Leeds, displayed each of Joshua’s art pieces and included an array of poetry and quotes – some here – written by Van Leader himself.
A TV stood at the front, playing clips from the documentary Joshua worked on before his passing. As the evening continued, Joshua’s father gave a speech, welcoming us into his son’s creative world and allowing us to understand how he found his love for art, finishing with a toast, made by Joshua himself to commemorate him and gave us an insight into who Joshua was as a person. His father’s words leaving tears in our eyes as he spoke so lovingly about his son gave us a truly beautiful moment and a perfect opening to such a special event.
“I inspire to inspire. I want to inspire other people.”
Throughout the event, there was a clear focus on mental health. With Joshua’s written works about his personal battle on the walls of the space, it encouraged each person to reflect on their own mental health.
Although, this is a difficult and personal conversation to have, the gallery created a welcoming space to
open your mind and allow yourself to confront your thoughts and feelings. The atmosphere of the room was nothing short of safe and it was clear you would not be judged for showing your true emotions, something I feel many galleries fail to achieve.
“Once you absorb the flame, you yourself will become the fire.”
Mental health is something we have only become aware of within recent decades, yet it is something that can have the biggest impact. Those who struggle with it often fight a silent battle, using a mask to hide their feelings. Joshua found relief from the battle in art, carefully crafting his collection inspired by his love for the ocean. Yet, his mask stayed on throughout its development.
Listening to Joshua’s story whilst exploring his creations had a gut-wrenching effect, opening our eyes to the struggles faced by many when fighting their mental health.
To stare at an art piece and admire its beauty is one thing, but to be able to understand the message beneath it and the artist themselves is another thing entirely. Joshua’s story left the room in tears but encouraged every one of us to face the fear of discussing mental health.
Joshua’s goal was to inspire people. His work has done just that. Inspiring everyone who witnesses his pieces to start a conversation. My heart and applause go out to his friends and family as they pulled together to ensure his art is shared with the world. I can only offer my gratitude and appreciation for their
dedication.
I encourage all who can to visit the gallery and acknowledge the effort that has been put into making Joshua’s dreams a reality. And to all those who can’t, I still encourage you to research ‘JVL’.
Joshua’s art is unique. But his story is akin to others. Many suffer with their mental health in silence, masking their true feelings. Talk to your loved ones, ask about their day, ask how they are, do
not let them fight alone. Opening up is the first step to a healthier mind.
Andy’s Man Club – https://andysmanclub.co.uk/contact-us/
Samaritans – 116 123
Silence of Suicide – 0808 115 1505
Production venue kindly provided by Moda Living, In Kind Supporter of Joshua Van Leader Limited.
Photographs are of artwork by Joshua Van Leader and of the artist at work.
