A Moment of Connection

Men with lived experience of suicidal thoughts are invited to help create a major multimedia exhibition across Cumbria.

Every Life Matters has teamed up with four Cumbrian artists to create A Moment of Connection, an Arts Council England-funded project exploring men's experiences of surviving suicide, male connection and finding hope.

The project will work with men who have survived suicide attempts or experienced suicidal thoughts, as well as people who have supported someone they love.

Through photography, moving image, sound and graffiti art, participants will explore the moments that helped them find hope or a reason to keep living. The project will offer a different perspective on how men seek help, talk about difficult experiences and support one another. It aims to challenge the stereotype of the "strong, silent' man who struggles alone.

Creating art across Cumbria

A Moment of Connection will run a series of drop-in workshops in Copeland, Carlisle and Barrow.

Men will be able to share as much or as little of their experiences as they feel comfortable with, while learning skills in photography, filmmaking, sound design and graffiti art. The work created through the project will contribute to exhibitions taking place in early 2027 at Cooke's Studios in Barrow, The Beacon in Whitehaven and Tullie in Carlisle.

Come for as long as you like. Refreshments are provided. 

Learn more about the project and when the drop-in sessions are running

Published: Aug 5, 2026