The eighth annual "The Art of Recovery" exhibit is set for May, and the Rappahannock Area Community Services Board is seeking entries.

The annual show features original works of art by adults with mental illness. It is organized by members of the Kenmore Club, the board's psychosocial clubhouse for adults with severe and persistent mental illness.

This year's exhibit will open Friday, May 4, at The PONSHOP on Caroline Street in Fredericksburg. The Friday opening coincides with the local "First Fridays" celebration of local art.

The exhibit will run through Sunday, May 27, and coincide with the May observance of Mental Health Month.

"The Art of Recovery" exhibit originated with the perceived need to help adults get involved with the local community.

The concept is based on the Fountain House gallery in New York. Helen Conley, a Kenmore Club member and the show organizer, said last year's exhibit had a record number of submissions.

"The quality of the work on display gets better every year," she noted in a press release. "I lead an art group at Kenmore Club and enjoy working with fellow members. It's wonderful to see their talent and confidence grow."

The local exhibit is designed to help artists living with mental illness gain confidence in their abilities, challenge mental health stigma, and experience community support.

The services board is accepting original drawings, paintings, sculpture, textiles, prints, mixed media, and ceramics.

Individuals who want to submit work have until April 13 to contact Conley.

Submissions may be in the form of photographs, and the entries must include an attached label with the name of the artist, year of completion if known, locale of the artist, and sale price if the art is available for sale. Participating in the show does not mean the artist must make the work available for sale.

The PONSHOP will apply a reasonable commission on all artwork sold.

Selections for the show will be made by April 20.

To submit art or for information, contact Conley at 540/373-7737 or artofrecov
Email: ery@facsb.state.va.us

Submission photos may be mailed to RACSB, Attn: Art of Recovery, 600 Jackson St., Fredericksburg, Va. 22401.