2013 Director's Creativity Showcase

 

 

The Missouri Mental Health Foundation, in collaboration with the University of Missouri – Columbia, is proud to present the 2013 Director’s Creativity Showcase. The display is located in the MU Student Center, in the wall cases in the Lower Lair Lounge and in the square cases located on the first floor outside of Mort’s. The display will remain on view until November 25, 2013.

 

MU Student Center Lower Lair Lounge display

Debuting in 1979, the Director’s Creativity Showcase is an annual event that displays the creative works of the talented people served by the Missouri Department of Mental Health (DMH) and acts as an inspiration to all who create and experience these works.

 

The Showcase helps to acquaint the public with the talents of those who are served by DMH.  These are individuals with mental illnesses, developmental disabilities, or addiction disorders.  The artwork is created not only for the Showcase, but is sometimes used as a means of therapy.  This therapy provides an outlet for the artist to express his or her feelings – feelings they may not be able to verbally communicate.  The Showcase has also encouraged people to try things they may have never considered possible in the past, only to discover the creative talent within them.



MU Student Center 1st floor square case display

Patty Henry, the Executive Director of the Missouri Mental Health Foundation, explains that “making the art available for public viewing is just one of the ways we can help reduce stigma associated with mental illness, developmental disabilities and addiction disorders. The artwork is inspiring and shows the amazing talents of many individuals faced with mental health issues.”


The Missouri Mental Health Foundation’s mission is to raise awareness and public understanding of the many issues that impact individuals and families who are living with mental illness, developmental disabilities, and addiction disorders. Increasing awareness and understanding of mental health disorders will help dissolve stigma and open doors to treatment and equal opportunity for participation in schools, communities and the workforce. 

Authored by Sarah Horne, PhD Student in Art History and Archaeology