CALLING ALL MICHIANA ARTISTS!
This inaugural Journey of the Mind through Visual Artistic Expression (aka Journey of the Mind) exhibit facilitates connection through the healing power of art. Beginning February 22, 2025, this event features local artists of all ages, skills, and backgrounds who use the creative process as a tool for mental and emotional well being.
Journey of the Mind not only exhibits artwork; it also highlights the story behind the art. Artists share accounts of their mental wellness journeys as accompaniments to their pieces. Their stories of struggle and triumph have touched many.
CALL FOR ENTRIES: Journey of the Mind through Visual Artistic Expression
Deadline: January 15, 2025
DESCRIPTION
Creative expression has the power to heal. For many, the creation of art is a meaningful way to promote self-discovery, self-expression, and the cultivation of joy. Journey of the Mind is a place for those who have found healing through art, specifically as it relates to mental health.
Mental Health Awareness of Michiana (MHAM) invites artists of all ages and skill levels from Michiana to showcase interpretations of mental health, mental struggles, and recovery in our inaugural Journey of the Mind exhibit. Works chosen for display will be exhibited at a date and location that is to be determined. Artwork may also be available for viewing in online galleries and printed programs.
Sometimes, people struggling with their mental health have an even harder time because they feel like they need to stay quiet. They might be afraid of facing negative judgments from others if they share that they are struggling. To address this stigma around mental health, artists are also invited to share their personal stories of struggle, recovery, and hope related to mental illness and wellness to accompany their artwork. By sharing their stories, contributing artists can help the community understand that mental health challenges are common, that recovery is possible, and that there is hope for those currently facing a mental health struggle.
Submission Guidelines
ELIGIBILITY
Any artist who feels their work fits the mental health theme is eligible to enter. Artists do not need to have a history or diagnosis of a mental health condition, substance use disorder, or other disability. Guardian approval is required for artists under the age of 18 to submit artwork. Works must be original and ready to hang with wire supports and/or display on pedestals. Artists are allowed to submit 1-3 works of art. Due to space constraints, we request that submissions be no larger than 24” x 24” in diameter. 2D and 3D works are appropriate; keep in mind that the exhibit space has limited space to display 3D works. Artwork must not contain images of violence, sexual conduct, or degradation of race, creed, or religion.
ENTRY FEES
There are no entry fees for this exhibition: however, artists are responsible for costs related to preparing their artwork and shipping/mailing/delivery, including drop-off and pickup.
TO ENTER YOUR WORK
An online application form is available using the Online Entry Form. Artists will submit their personal information, information about the artwork, and a high-quality photo* of their work along with any personal narratives (explaining struggle, survival, and recovery). You may also use the Interest Form to note initial interest without completed works. This does NOT guarantee a spot in the exhibit, but it does add you to a communications list with updates/reminders about Journey of the Mind.
Sharing personal stories is an important part of Journey of the Mind. Stories may be published to promote the exhibit, spread awareness of mental health issues, and/or included in the exhibition booklet. There may also be opportunities for artists to speak about their experiences during exhibit events. Submission of narratives implies permission to publish these accounts in the exhibition booklet and elsewhere.
*Please remember that submitted photos will be used in the jurying process and the printed exhibit booklet. When taking photos of your artwork(s), take extra care to avoid glare, distracting backgrounds behind the artwork, and tilting or angling your art (unless it is intended to tilt or sit at an angle when displayed). MHAM reserves the right to edit photos (remove backgrounds, adjust brightness/contrast, etc.) to better suit the booklet and online galleries.
You can review tips for photographing artwork in the following YouTube video: https://bit.ly/39AOmDL
SELECTION PROCESS
We expect a large number of submissions. After entries are received, curators will select representative pieces to be exhibited. Works with incomplete submission information will not be considered. All works selected for display must be suitably prepared for display/hanging, including any specialized hardware or equipment required.
DEADLINES
January 15, 2025: Application form and photo of art entries submitted online
February 1: Notification of acceptance sent out via email
February 15: Delivery of artwork. Exact location and delivery times will be provided at a later date.
February 22: Journey of the Mind through Visual Artistic Expression exhibit Opening Reception
Official length of the exhibition to be announced. Artists are encouraged to attend the opening reception in its entirety.
March 15: Exhibit closes
March 22: Artists pick up work. Exact pick-up times will be provided at a later date.
(Please take note of changes via this page, the MHAM newsletter sign-up or MHAM Facebook page.)
DISCLAIMER
The exhibit space and Mental Health Awareness of Michiana will not be responsible for loss or damage of works during transit to or from the exhibition site or during the duration of the exhibit. Accepted works must remain on display for the duration of the exhibition. Mental Health Awareness of Michiana retains the right to reproduce images and narratives of accepted works for the purposes of press releases, website inclusion, marketing, and promotion of the event and organization. MHAM retains the right to edit photos/statements in order to maintain consistency and/or clarity. As the display will take place in a public space, MHAM is not responsible for photographs of the exhibit that may be taken or shared by the public and that may include the artist’s work. Submission of artwork implies that you understand and agree to these conditions.
Questions or concerns? Call 574-393-8809, option 3 or email info@mhamichiana.org.
To learn more about the Pro Bono Counseling Project, click HERE!
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info@mhamichiana.org
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