The impact of Covid-19 takes many forms, but one aspect that has been less addressed is the emotional wallop many in our community have experienced. 

Whether survivors of the virus or those who have suffered financial losses or anxiety from the prolonged response to the still serious situation, finding an outlet for those feelings is important. And art has time and time again proven an excellent way to share those feelings.

Mental Health America of Northeast Indiana (MHANI) has issued a call for entries for The Art of Hope, an exhibit at the Allen County Public Library’s Jeffrey R. Krull Gallery from Oct. 19 until Nov. 15. 

There are also plans for an online version of the exhibit. 

The call for entries asked “artists from the region to showcase interpretations of mental wellness and mental illness in Art of Hope,” adding that “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 artists’ stories, MHANI hopes to broaden the impact of the gallery and help the community understand that mental illness is common, that recovery is possible, and that there is hope for those currently facing a mental health struggle.”

It is not required that the artists have a diagnosed mental health issue, only that it be the theme of the submission. 

Artists are encouraged to enter one to three pieces for consideration,. Those pieces must not include images of violence, sexual conduct, or degradation of race, creed, or religion. The application form and photo of art entries must be submitted online by Aug. 31. For more information visit bit.ly/aohsubmit2020.