Art, Advocacy, and Mental Health
An annual exhibition presented by the Alabama Department of Mental Health, celebrating the creative voices of individuals receiving mental health services across Alabama.
Frequently Asked Questions | Submit Artwork | Plan Your Visit
About the Capitol Showcase
The Capitol Showcase is an annual art exhibition that highlights the creativity, resilience, and lived experiences of individuals receiving mental health services throughout Alabama.
For more than two decades, this program has provided artists with a public platform to share their work in one of the state’s most visible civic spaces. Through painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, and mixed media, participants express their stories, perspectives, and personal journeys.
The Showcase promotes understanding, reduces stigma, and affirms that recovery includes creativity, connection, and community.
More than 20 Years of Art and Advocacy
Since its founding in 2005, the Capitol Showcase has grown into one of Alabama’s longest-running exhibitions focused on mental health awareness.
Over the years, the program has:
- Featured hundreds of artists statewide
- Represented all regions of Alabama
- Engaged thousands of visitors
- Strengthened partnerships between providers, communities, and policymakers
Each year, the exhibition continues the department’s commitment to promoting recovery, self-determination, and opportunity.
Peggy Olson, Web Designer
334-353-7538
Submit Your Artwork
Artists who have experience with mental illnesses, developmental disabilities, substance use disorders, or co-occurring disorders in Alabama are invited to submit original artwork for consideration in the annual Capitol Showcase.
Important Dates
Submission Deadline: March 27, 2026
Artist Notification: April 2026
Exhibition Opening: May 2026
What to Submit
- Digital image of your artwork
- Your typed story
- Completed application form
- Only one entry per artist
- Artwork must be your original work
How to Apply
Complete the online submission form and upload your materials by the posted deadline.
[Start Submission]
Completion of the form online is preferred; however, if you need a form you can print, please send an email to peggy.olson@mh.alabama.gov.
Be Part of the Capitol Showcase
Whether you are an artist, advocate, provider, or community member, you are invited to take part in this celebration of creativity and mental health.
Submit your artwork, plan a visit, or contact us for more information.
Best in Show Winners over the Years
Frequently Asked Questions
Who owns the artwork?
Artists retain ownership of their work.
Is the artwork for sale?
Artwork may be sold with the artist's permission; all proceeds go to the artist. Contact our office to make arrangements.
Can family members attend?
Yes. The exhibition is open to the public.
May the media photograph the artwork?
Media requests are coordinated through ADMH. [Media Requests]
Can you view the show online?
The link to the show will be posted in May
When is the show reception?
Information regarding the reception will be sent to the artists via email.
Can you view the show online?
Yes, a link to view this year's artwork will be posted in May.
When is the show reception?
Typically, we have a reception near the end of May. Information regarding the reception will be sent to the artists via email.
Plan Your Visit
The Capitol Showcase is displayed in the Alabama State Capitol in downtown Montgomery.
Location
600 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36130
[Get Directions]
Exhibit Hours
Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Excluding state holidays
Accessibility
The Capitol is accessible and accommodates visitors with mobility needs.
Parking & Security
All visitors must pass through security screening. Nearby public parking is available.