Mental Health

Collaboration: Dan Saland

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“Breath”

12”x10”x5”

Black Indian Soapstone

 "For this collaborative project, I wanted to capture something that was universally felt by all people, regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity or religion. Angst is shared among us all and in order to manage the dread and anxiety, we have to accept and ultimately breathe. When Jay and I spoke in more depth about our work on this project, I realized that the focus was not on the struggle of life, but rather how we deal with it. The breath offers that to us all. To breathe is to sustain life."

Dan Saland was born/raised in Northern NJ and has created various forms of art throughout his life. Since 2012, his passion has been stone sculpture. As an existential-humanistic psychologist, he finds many connections and applications between psychology andsculpting a medium that is millions of years old. Dan’s approach is one of patience and humility. The relationship that is developed with each stone and the process of sculpting itself are critical to the creative experience. Similar to the human psyche, sculpting is an evolution of formation and becoming. Dan also finds carving stone quite cathartic as the sculptural challenge leads to deep self-reflection and change.

Exclusive Vault Release: "My Own Way" Documentary and Music Video

In 2015 I wrote a song and directed a video called "My Own Way" that featured some of the bravest and most powerful people I've ever met. The goal was to inspire people to speak loudly not only about mental health, but about their loves, passions and bold embrace of themselves. We created this in support of the brilliant organization Love is Louder and the JED Foundation to send this message out into the world. There are so many people to thank that made this video possible but most importantly I have to thank the people who have shared their stories - Ilma Gore, Michael Gerber, Afia Fields, Jeanette Nitao, Alix Angelis, Kris Angelis, Dana Harris & Jeff Everett.

Full documentary and music video below. Let me know you it made you feel in the comments!

Documentary

Music Video

Exclusive Vault Release: "American Psycho"

Today’s “Raw Emotions Vault” release is an unreleased demo I wrote called “American Psycho”. This is a really important song for me and explores the experiences I’ve had when I’ve felt embarrassed and afraid of my depression. This song is a reminder for me to be bold, transparent and honest in the words and music I write.

Listen and comment below to let me know what you think of the song.