he Vernon Community Arts Centre is proud to welcome back The Canadian Mental Health Association for the 21st Annual Awakening the Spirit Art Show & Sale, celebrating the creative talents of people living with mental illness.

Art has a therapeutic quality that has proven to benefit the mental health of individuals. Artwork on display is from those living with mental illness who have used art to improve their mental health positively. We hope to break down some of the barriers and stigma surrounding mental health and mental illness through art and creativity.

“People get this idea it is really easy [to make art] when you have a mental illness, but it’s not,” she says. “It’s harder because you have to deal with the struggles you are going through, as well as trying to do a piece.” ~Bernadette Kroft.

“Art makes me a better person. It makes me feel like I can do anything if I put my mind to it.” Artist Betty Kent

Awakening the Spirit runs July 25th to August 20th, and is open daily to the public.

Admission is free. Donations are accepted to contribute to future community programming.

An opening reception will be held Thursday, July 25th, 6:30 – 8:30 pm.

Hours are Mon-Thurs: 9-9, Fri-Sat: 9-5, Sun: 12-4.

Reduced Hours from August 5 – August 16 (resume regular hours on August 17th): Mon – Thurs: 9-6, Fri: 9-5, Sat & Sun: CLOSED