How Creativity Saved Artist Benjibonz Through The Healing Power Of Art Therapy

On The Table Read Magazine, “the best arts and entertainment magazine UK“, discover how artist Benjibonz, founder of Draw My Town, turned his battle with severe depression into a lifeline by partnering with Birmingham Mind to launch therapeutic art workshops and support vital mental health services.

Mental health battles often defy logic, affecting individuals regardless of their background, support system, or external circumstances. For artist Ben Poultney—known professionally as Benjibonz and the founder of Draw My Town—severe depression and debilitating panic attacks nearly cost him everything. Despite having a loving family and promising prospects, he endured years of constant psychological distress. Ultimately, his journey through recovery revealed a profound truth: creativity can serve as a vital lifeline when conventional support systems are needed most.

The Silent Struggle of Depression

For many who suffer from depression, the internal reality does not match outward appearances. Ben experienced constant panic attacks that escalated to several episodes a day, turning his own mind into an overwhelming environment.

While treatments such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and medication played a role in his recovery, he found that creative expression became his ultimate anchor. He notes that maintaining a steady creative practice is just as vital to his daily well-being as physical exercise, fresh air, and a healthy diet. Without an outlet for his thoughts, the psychological toll quickly mounts.

Channeling Pain Into New Artwork

To bridge the gap between historical struggles and modern experiences, Ben created Sorrowing Young Man, a contemporary reimagining of Vincent van Gogh’s 1890 painting Sorrowing Old Man (also known as At Eternity’s Gate).

Van Gogh created the original piece shortly before his own tragic death, capturing a raw vulnerability that still resonates today. Ben’s modern interpretation mirrors the post-impressionist style, which he views as exceptionally well-suited for releasing and processing deep emotion.

Subtle details in the composition—such as an off-centre picture frame hanging in the background—highlight how everyday surroundings can become entirely overlooked when an individual is consumed by mental exhaustion and despair. Through this piece, the artwork demonstrates that psychological struggles remain just as prevalent and devastating in the 21st century as they were generations ago.

From Chaotic Outlets to Lifesaving Community Workshops

Reflecting on his early years, Ben recalls channeling intense frustration and pent-up energy into chaotic, expressive drawings. While unconventional at the time, this early outlet prevented that internal pressure from manifesting in dangerous ways. Observing peers in his hometown fall victim to addiction, incarceration, or worse, he recognizes that creativity steered him away from a similarly destructive path.

Now, Ben is turning his personal experience into community action through a partnership with Birmingham Mind. By launching free therapeutic art workshops, he aims to provide safe spaces where participants can use creativity as a catalyst for healing.

These workshops emphasize that art is not solely about producing aesthetic results, but about maintaining cognitive health and finding clarity during difficult times. To extend this impact further, 100% of the profits from every print sold of Sorrowing Young Man will be donated directly to Birmingham Mind to support vital mental health services.

Find more from Benjibonz now:

https://drawmytown.com

https://drawmytown.com/shop/sorrowing-young-man-mind-mental-health-charity

https://www.instagram.com/benjibonzart

https://www.boxpark.co.uk/venues/shoreditch/events/benjibonz-art-exhibition

https://www.facebook.com/drawmytown

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-poultney-2b68b436

https://www.instagram.com/drawmytown

https://www.youtube.com/drawmytown