Finding Refuge in Art

Teaching artist sharra frank with avivo participant. photo by Elizabeth Flores • liz.flores@startribune.com

For the past year, COMPAS artists have been working at Avivo sites to engage people who are living with mental illness in a variety of arts programs. The StarTribune highlighted the program in an article in the Saturday, October 5th paper. One of our favorite quotes is from client Johanna Christianson who says about making art:

“It helps me stay out of my head and bring it to a peaceful place.”

With support from the Minnesota State Arts Board and donors to COMPAS, adults living with mental illness are using creative experiences to connect with each other, diminish isolation, and build confidence in their abilities.

Plus they are creating beautiful art!

Pieces of the newly create art will be on display at the Downtown Minneapolis Central Library this winter. The exhibit, “Breaking Barriers Through the Arts,” will be held in the Cargill Hall, 2nd Floor, Hennepin County Library – Minneapolis Central, 300 Nicollet Mall, Minneapolis, MN 55401. It includes visual and literary arts as well as music. The exhibition works to challenge mental health stigma, raise awareness, and strengthen the artistic community formed by this partnership.

The exhibit is open December 4th to January 29th during library hours:

• Monday - Thursday: 9am - 9pm

• Friday & Saturday: 9am - 5pm

• Sunday: 12pm – 5pm