Montgomery, Ala. – Since 2005, the Alabama Department of Mental Health has hosted the Capitol Showcase, an art show contributed to, by individuals with mental illnesses, developmental disabilities, substance use disorders or co-occurring disorders. They graciously offer their works of art to showcase throughout the month of May, in observance of Mental Health Month.
Life Gives Sight (2021)
The online gallery can be visited at https://mh.alabama.gov/capitol-showcase-art-exhibition-2021/ and features unique artwork and personal stories from each artist. Artwork is posted daily on ADMH social media accounts, recognizing the artists with individual posts to demonstrate their expression of mental health and life experiences. Newly added this year is online voting for Best in Show and Honorable Mention. You can vote for the artwork here.
Art benefits psychological and social recovery, especially in the areas of self-expression and discovery, relationships and social identity1. Many of the artists remark how art is encouraged and celebrated through their recovery, and the care and support they receive from community mental health centers, peers and staff.
A Zoom Reception for the artists will also be held on May 27th, 2 p.m. To learn more about the Capitol Showcase and the Alabama Department of Mental Health, please call the Office of Public Information at 334-242-3417 or email peggy.olson@mh.alabama.gov.
Due to social distancing and best practices related to COVID-19, this year’s showcase will again be online only. The need to ensure health and safety remains a priority for the artists and attendees.
About Us: The Alabama Department of Mental Health serves more than 200,000 Alabama citizens with mental illnesses, developmental disabilities, and substance use disorders. Our mission is to Serve, Empower, and Support, and promote the health and well-being of Alabamians. Visit www.mh.alabama.gov for more information.
1 Van Lith, Schofield, and Fenner. (2011). Identifying the evidence-base for art-based practices and their potential benefit for mental health recovery: A critical review.
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