In observance of Mental Health Awareness Month, the West Plains Council on the Arts (WPCA) and Ozarks Healthcare Behavioral Health Center are partnering to host a community art exhibit exploring the therapeutic benefits of creative expression.
Dubbed “A Beautiful Mess,” the exhibit will be on display from May 4 to May 15 in the gallery located on the mezzanine of the West Plains Civic Center, 110 St. Louis St. The gallery is open to the public during regular civic center hours.
Organizers emphasize the vital role art can play in psychological and emotional well-being, using the May event to highlight alternative coping mechanisms for mental health struggles.
“Art can provide a creative outlet for expressing and processing emotions, particularly those that are difficult to put into words,” said Bob Holmes, art show coordinator for the Ozarks Healthcare Behavioral Health Center. “This can help individuals to release feelings of stress, anxiety and depression, and promote a sense of emotional release and catharsis.”
WPCA Coordinator Kathleen Morrissey echoed the sentiment, noting the exhibit's timely connection to the national health observance.
“WPCA is honored to facilitate this art show during Mental Health Month,” Morrissey said. “Art has long been considered an excellent outlet for one to express themselves.”
The competition features artwork from residents across the region, with submissions coming from Caulfield, Licking, Houston, Mtn. Grove, Mtn. View, Birch Tree, Winona and West Plains. Artists were invited to provide their interpretation of the "Beautiful Mess" theme across all media types in various age categories, ranging from first-graders to adults.
The public is invited to view the artwork, discuss the pieces and speak with the creators during a meet-the-artist event from 4:30 to 6 p.m. May 15, in the gallery.
For more information about the exhibit, contact Holmes at b.holmes@ozhcare.com or 417-274-8988, or Morrissey at 417-293-7751. The WPCA receives funding from the Missouri Arts Council, a state agency.
