(Dixon, IL) Art and mental wellness have strong connections that go back to at least the 18th century when art was used as part of formal treatment methods for individuals with a mental illness. It’s still used therapeutically today. That idea of the connection between artistic expression and mental wellness was part of the genesis of the first Expressions Art Sale and Reception held in 2005.
The Sinnissippi Foundation and Sauk Valley Bank will host the 9th annual Expressions Art Sale and Reception at The Next Picture Show, 113 West First Street, in Dixon, Illinois. Expressions will begin when art and silent auction items go on display Tuesday, April 9, 2013, at the gallery. Art will remain on display and available for purchase, and silent auction items will be available for bids during gallery hours from April 9th – 19th. The event then concludes with the reception Friday, April 19, 2013, from 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. at The Next Picture Show.
“We are extremely pleased to have Sauk Valley Bank return as co-sponsor of Expressions,” explains event coordinator, Andy Jackson. “They have been a very welcome addition to the event and a fantastic supporter of our local communities, the arts, and the Sinnissippi Foundation.”
“Once again, Expressions will offer a variety of artwork from local and regional artists,” adds Jackson. To date, artists whose work will be featured in the Expressions Art Sale include: Les Allen, Ellen Allen, Kate Askegaard, Tim Drane, Beverly Garcia, James Hey, Charles Kerr, Phil Mattox, Debb Munson, Rick Munson, Ken Reif, Jerry L. Sheffler, and Tamara Shriver. “By the date of the event, there will be nearly thirty artists who will have donated a piece of their work to the event.”
In addition to the sale of quality artwork, proceeds will also be generated through a silent auction of dozens of popular items. The silent auction will conclude during the reception portion of the event, the evening of April 19th.
“Two additional features that debuted last year will return this year to Expressions,” adds Jackson. “First, via The Next Picture Show’s website, Expressions art will be offered for sale online at virtually the same time as it is available for purchase at the gallery. It allows those who want to support the foundation through an art purchase to participate by buying a piece of art online, via a secure website, from the comfort of their home or office. This feature was well received last year and we expect more sales online this year.”
The art will available for purchase on The Next Picture Show’s website from April 9 – 18, 2013. Art will not be available for purchase online April 19, 2013, the day of the reception portion of the event. To purchase Expressions art online just go to www.thenextpictureshow.com and click on the link at the left side of the page to Expressions. Additional charges for shipping may apply for some buyers.
“The second feature that returns this year is the exhibit of art from individuals in recovery from an alcohol or other drug use disorder,” adds Jackson. “Photos will be exhibited with a brief note about the photo, the individual’s recovery, or other topics. These pieces will not be for sale, but are a pure exhibit.”
Proceeds raised by Expressions help the Foundation’s various funds and programs. Like the CARES Fund; which provides emergency assistance to client families served by Sinnissippi Centers; the Client
Fee Assistance Fund; which assists individuals in receiving vital behavioral health care; and the Holiday Food Basket Fund; which provided nearly four tons of food items during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays to Sinnissippi Centers’ client-families in need.
For more information on Expressions or the Sinnissippi Foundation you can call Andy Jackson at 815-284-9380. Expressions is also featured on the Foundation’s Facebook fan page, just search for the Sinnissippi Foundation from your Facebook account.
Information on the Foundation can be viewed online at www.sinnissippi.com/foundation or via the Foundation’s Facebook fan page.
