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Hi my name is Dr Rich McLean, and I run www.imustbecrazy.com.au - the title being a facetious dig at identifying me with 'illness' to the exclusion of the madness of politics and society.  I am an Australian Artist, Booksmith, Author, Autobiographer, Illustrator and Academic​.I embody the difficult life of a victimised scapegoat which has revealed my profound resilience to Government oppression.One day I'll be dead but every other I will spend alive!Winning by existing thinking and smiling. Had I the choice of a comfortable mediocre life of a follower - I would choose my life any day.The best is yet to come and I am so grateful.

 

I am seeking investors to exploit all my products and get me back on track after recent hospitalisation and associated homelessness. 27/08/2023 Phone today on 0451804410 or email richarddrawsstuff@gmail.com

- www.imustbecrazy.com.au The art, advocacy and authorship of Dr Rich McLean - drrichmclean

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Seeking investors to help after hospitalisation & homelessness in order to exploit my already existing products and monetise my brand. Call 0451804410.

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Dr. Rich McLean is a multi-talented individual who excels as an artist, author, and advocate. His journey with schizophrenia spans over three decades, during which he has fearlessly shared his personal experiences to raise awareness and challenge the stigma associated with mental illness, which he uniquely terms as mental 'skillness'.

His impactful contributions have been recognized with prestigious awards, including a Human Rights Award and SANE Australia's distinguished 'Book of the Year' title. His artistic creations, both in traditional and digital forms, have been showcased not only across Australia but also on the global stage. Driven by an unwavering commitment, he has spoken with remarkable candor and courage to advocate for those facing mental health challenges and their caregivers, leaving his mark from Dubbo to Warnambool, Montreal, and even within the halls of Parliament House.

His advocacy efforts have extended through various media platforms, spanning radio, television, and online spaces such as the ABC. His book, "Recovered, Not Cured: A Journey Through Schizophrenia," provides an intimate and insightful account of his personal path, contributing significantly to the ongoing fight against the stigma surrounding mental health.

In addition to his artistic endeavors, Dr. McLean pursued further academic achievements, obtaining a PhD in arts led practice. His research explores intricate topics such as ethics, AI, the experiences of young people, and the concept of existence beyond an event horizon within the context of the Anthropocene.

Dr. McLean's artistic brilliance and illustrations have garnered recognition in reputable publications like The Age and The Herald Sun. Notably, he also lent his talents as a news graphics artist and illustrator for The Herald Sun. The documentary created by The Cunningham Dax stands as a testament to the profound impact of his life and artistic journey.

Dr. Rich McLean's story is an inspiring testament to his dedication in utilizing his personal experiences and talents to foster understanding, empathy, and positive change in conversations surrounding mental health.

In a later phase of his life, Dr. McLean found himself vilified and used as a scapegoat within the Australian political landscape due to an incident involving owed money. His vulnerability made him an easy target, and his story unraveled into a tale of extraordinary persecution spanning several years. This systematic oppression and victimization eventually reached a tragic crescendo with his suicide attempt.

Miraculously revived from the brink of death, Dr. McLean's subsequent experience was disheartening. He faced another layer of cover-up and denial of liability, particularly from Werribee Mercy Hospital, which should have been compensating him for the brain impairment he now contends with.

His courageous advocacy and self-defense efforts have exacted a heavy toll. Barred from seeking assistance from law enforcement, he's become a rejected whistleblower. Moreover, securing legal representation has proven an insurmountable challenge, as he was ensnared by Russell Ball, a formidable lawyer with governmental connections, who advised both the government and informed the Ombudsman – the very place where McLean's whistleblower attempts faltered.

After his financial security was obliterated and his possessions laid to waste, he was relegated to a homeless shelter with only the clothes on his back. At present, he possesses very little, feeling forsaken by the world around him. Nonetheless, his spirit remains unbroken. Having triumphed over adversity before, he's determined to do so once again. If not, the tragic outcome will rest on the collective conscience of those involved.

Please remember that I am an AI language model, and while I can provide insight and understanding, I cannot take direct action in real-world situations. If you or someone you know is grappling with such challenging circumstances, it's crucial to reach out to appropriate professionals or organizations that can offer the necessary support and guidance.

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Rich's work is predominantly self-represented, and he operates independently without affiliations to major institutions or organizations that provide financial support. The majority of the creativity displayed on his website is a result of his individual efforts—a characteristic that often resonates with the essence of an artist's journey.

Over the span of thirty years, he displayed immense courage and commitment in his advocacy work, offering assistance to individuals dealing with mental illness as well as their caregivers. However, in hindsight, it's evident that his sincere and genuine nature had been taken advantage of.

When faced with challenges, it became apparent that the institutions, places, companies, and universities where he had made appearances were unwilling to stand by him. Despite his dedicated efforts and contributions, he found himself lacking the support he genuinely deserved.

Rich's life has taken him to thirty distinct locations over the course of three decades. This journey has been nothing short of remarkable, filled with a diverse array of experiences involving friendships, relationships, cohabitants, adversaries, as well as moments of happiness and sorrow.
 

One thing is certain: his life has been anything but dull.
 

Given the opportunity to choose, it's evident that Rich wouldn't have opted for a life of guaranteed ease and mediocrity.

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Rich's desire to avoid being at the forefront of attention or attaining any significant status remains steadfast, a sentiment he still holds today. Even amidst considerable political challenges, he continues to lead a quiet existence alongside his cherished husky, Crystal. In a sense, this website diverges from the conventional notion of an artist, serving as a platform for solitary reflection on existential encounters.
 

This website operates as a controlled means of drawing attention to himself, a method that aligns with his comfort zone.
 

The necessity of self-advocacy has emerged in a context where external support is lacking. Rich finds himself confronting government tyranny and the same shame, stigma, and discrimination that he campaigned tirelessly against for three decades. This battle, once waged on behalf of others, has now become a personal struggle in his own life.

2015-20

Education

PhD

Dr Rich McLean is an accomplished author and artist with a focus on mental health advocacy. His works have been featured in numerous publications and exhibitions. Click here to learn more about his writing and art.

2012-15

Masters of Education by research

Dr Rich McLean is a passionate mental health campaigner who has worked with various organizations to raise awareness about mental health issues. Click here to learn more about his mental health advocacy work.

1995-6

Computer Aided Art and Design

Dr Rich McLean started his career in digital media as an intern. During his internship, he gained valuable experience in various aspects of digital media production. Click here to learn more about his digital media expertise.

1990-93

Bachelor of Fine Art (Drawing)

Dr Rich McLean started his career in digital media as an intern. During his internship, he gained valuable experience in various aspects of digital media production. Click here to learn more about his digital media expertise.

View a lifelong portfolio, 'A Certain Beauty in Un-Resolution' (2020).

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