Wick High School Students Ride the Wave of Hope in Inspiring Art Project

Caithness recently welcomed a powerful ripple of positivity as Wick High School pupils took part in the Wave of Hope—a vibrant community art initiative designed by artist and wellbeing coach, Lisa McDonald of Haven House Healing, and supported by Highland-based mental health charity Mikeysline.

 Beginning with mindful activities and outdoor sketching at Reiss beach, pupils drew inspiration from the Caithness coastline and used the experience to reflect on themes such as mental health, relationships, aspirations, and community—all through a hopeful lens.

 The Wick workshop follows a successful roll-out at Thurso High School earlier this month, where Third Year pupils also created their own Waves of Hope.

 “The Wave of Hope is about empowering young people to express themselves in positive and creative ways,” said Lisa McDonald. “Through art, their voices speak directly to the heart—about solutions, connection, and the courage to hope.”

The finished artworks are now on display at Wick High School, inviting students, staff, and the wider community to pause, reflect, and engage with the hopeful messages. Members of the public are also encouraged to view and share the creations via the Wave of Hope Facebook page, helping to spread the message across the Highlands and beyond.

Emily Stokes, CEO of Mikeysline, added:

“Mikeysline is proud to support the Wave of Hope project, which reflects the charity’s ongoing commitment to providing young people with safe, creative, and meaningful opportunities to talk about mental health and wellbeing.

This is a wonderful example of how creativity and community can come together to inspire hope and resilience. We are incredibly proud of the pupils at Wick and Thurso High Schools for embracing this opportunity and leading the way in open conversations about mental health.”

Schools, organisations, and groups interested in hosting a Wave of Hope workshop are warmly encouraged to get in touch with Lisa at Haven House Healing.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Pictured: Supplied images of artwork

 Mikeysline operates 365 days a year, accessible through their text line at 07786207755; WhatsApp at 01463 729000, messenger and via its website and live chat. They offer face-to-face support in Hives across the region – at their Inverness headquarters, and in their Alness, Nairn, Tain & District, Thurso and Elgin hubs. Here, people can engage in one-to-one support, or at some venues join in group sessions for adults, men, families and young people.

The Mikeysline mobile app: Along with their latest news, events and ways to get involved, the app makes it even easier for those in need of help to reach out for support.

Links to download our App:

Android:  https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.thecafeapp.mikeysline&pcampaignid=web_share

iPhone: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/mikeysline/id6736364818

The charity also produces a popular podcast, Speaking of Suicide; provides support for businesses; works closely with teachers and pupils in schools across the North of Scotland.

For more information, visit www.mikeysline.co.uk or find Mikeysline on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok