Saving Lives Through Sport

A multi-artist campaign centred on the mental health benefits of movement.

Created with charity Sport In Mind, ‘Saving Lives Through Sport’ launched this world mental health day to shine a light on the vital role movement plays in supporting good mental health and community connection. At the heart of the campaign is a film sponsored by Berocca that brings together eighteen artists to create a multi-disciplinary ode to running.

Approached to take part in the film for their expressive character-focused work and their personal connections with running, Dan Woodger and Alva Skog brought to the film their instantly recognisable and colourful styles, with Kitchen bringing Alva’s illustrations to life through their dynamic and characterful animation.

For Dan Woodger, having recently finished his mammoth London Marathon illustrated project, running is a huge inspiration and passion within his work, as is the opportunity to craft nostalgic and colourful characters.

‘I’m an obsessive runner. The clarity of creative thought and running’s ability to ease stress and anxiety have led it to become an integral part of my creative practice. So being given the chance to create a section for this beautiful piece of work was an amazing opportunity. I loved working with the lyrics I was assigned. It was silly and fun, but also required a little creative nuisance to make sure the lines landed with the intended cheekiness. So much fun to work on, and I’m very proud to be part of such a positive message.’

For Alva, their characters take on a larger than life personality, transcending gender norms and societal expectations to present an optimistic and free world-view. For this project Alva drew on their personal experiences of exercise and movement as a support for good mental health, to depict a character outrunning their worries to a brighter future. KITCHEN was brought into the project to animate Alva's illustrations in their dynamic style, further bringing the character to life.