Special mention CROSSMEDIA PROJECTS
The Tree of Ecstasy and Unbearable Sadness
Publisher: Dirt Lane Press
Country/Region: Australia
Book Title: The Tree of Ecstasy and Unbearable Sadness
Author: Matt Ottley
Extension: From book to Music, Audiobook and Short movie
Producer: Tina Wilson
Trailer
What the jury said:
"A beautiful, thought provoking and touching multimedia work for young adults/adults which succeeds in its stated aim of ‘contributing to the ongoing discussion around mental illness in a way that leads to greater understanding…to empathy and compassion’. Through illustration, text, a short movie and music, the project poetically allows us to traverse the darkness and emotional challenges together with the artist, musicians, choir. We thus learn how art in all its forms can help us make sense of the dark, find the light, as well as our way home to ourselves. While the illustrations may be upsetting to younger children, the topic of dealing with depression is addressed with beauty, creativity, and refreshing honesty."