“This isn’t just an art show. It’s a lifeline,” says Emma Kluibenschadl as she announces a new exhibition and sale to be held in memory of her son Stefan and to raise funds to provide mental health support for neurodivergent young people.
Emma and husband Tristan, from Margate, founded STAK.life (Stefan’s Acts of Kindness) CIC following Stefan’s death in 2022 at the age of just 15.
The kind and talented teen, who was diagnosed with high functioning autism, took his life after health services failed to provide appropriate help as he struggled with increasing low moods and anxiety as well as being a victim of bullying.
STAK.life continues his legacy of care and kindness by helping neurodivergent young people and helping others experiencing grief and loss.
The first art sale event in 2024, which marked Stefan’s 18th birthday, had artwork donated from more than 40 artists including Anthony Giles, Kate Malone, Angela Malone, Margo in Margate, Hayden Kays, and many others. Donations also came from The Libertines, including signed song lyrics and a framed edition of album All Quiet on the Eastern Esplanade.
The four-day event raised a staggering £15,500.
This year, the exhibition at ARK in Cliftonville will be held from May 8-10 and feature donated paintings, sculptures, photography, sealed bid items and more.
The Kent Speak Their Name memorial quilt, with 66 squares made by friends and families, each representing the memories of loved ones who died by suicide, will also be on display.
Emma and Tristan were the organisers behind the making of the Kent quilt which travelled alongside the Baton of Hope this year to raise awareness of suicide prevention support.
Emma is now appealing for art donations, raffle prizes and high bid items to raise funds at this May’s event.
She said: “This isn’t just an art show. It’s a lifeline. Every piece of art sold is a hand extended to an Autistic young person who needs mental health support right now.
“Let’s come together because our young people’s lives are on the line and art is how we stand up for them.”
Get in contact via email at [email protected]
Via the Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/stak.life.2024
Or use the website contact form at https://www.stak.life/
Baton of Hope parade in Margate led by Brigade band before Kent Speak Their Name memorial quilt unveiling and Hope event at Dreamland
