Transformations
Galleries and Artists
We are seeking out galleries to showcase art that raises awareness and supports artists who have experienced TBI or mental illness. If you are a gallery and are interested in supporting this movement, please contact us. We are looking for artists as well.
# Transformations: Art as a Journey Through Mental Health
## Exhibition Overview
**Transformations** celebrates the power of abstract art as a healing force and expressive outlet for those living with mental health conditions, traumatic brain injuries, and psychosis. This exhibition aims to showcase the profound artistic talent that emerges from these unique perspectives while fostering greater understanding and empathy among viewers.
### Our Vision
The artistic mind processes experience in ways that often transcend conventional expression. For many living with mental health challenges, traumatic brain injuries, or psychosis, abstract art becomes an essential language—a way to communicate emotions, perceptions, and realities that might otherwise remain hidden.
This exhibition creates a platform where these powerful artistic voices can be heard and celebrated. Through abstract expression, our featured artists transform their lived experiences into visual journeys that invite viewers to see the world through different lenses.
### Exhibition Goals
* **Celebrate artistic excellence** from underrepresented perspectives
* **Challenge stigma** surrounding mental health conditions and brain injuries
* **Build community** among artists with shared experiences
* **Educate visitors** about the therapeutic value of artistic expression
* **Create dialogue** about mental health, neurodiversity, and creative resilience
Years in the making, this exhibition represents the culmination of personal journeys with abstract art as a healing practice. What began as therapeutic exploration has evolved into a powerful artistic movement worthy of recognition and respect.
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## Artist Submission Guidelines
### Who Can Submit
We welcome submissions from artists who:
* Live with mental health conditions
* Have experienced traumatic brain injuries
* Navigate life with psychosis or related experiences
* Use abstract art as a means of expression and healing
Artists at all career stages are encouraged to apply, from emerging talents to established professionals.
### Artwork Requirements
* **Medium:** We accept works in all visual media including painting, drawing, mixed media, digital art, sculpture, and photography with abstract elements
* **Theme:** Work should reflect personal experience, transformation, perception, or healing
* **Completion:** Artworks must be completed within the last five years
* **Availability:** All submitted works must be available for exhibition if selected
* **Presentation:** Works must be exhibition-ready (properly framed, mounted, or otherwise prepared for display)
### Submission Process
To be considered for inclusion in "Transformations," please submit:
1. **Artist Statement** (300-500 words)
* Describe your artistic practice and how it relates to your lived experience
* Explain how abstract art functions as a therapeutic or expressive outlet for you
* Share what you hope viewers will take away from experiencing your work
2. **Artwork Samples**
* 3-5 high-resolution images of works you'd like to be considered
* Include title, medium, dimensions, and year for each piece
* Brief description of each work's significance or story (optional)
3. **Artist Biography** (150-250 words)
* Your artistic background and development
* Previous exhibition experience (if applicable)
* Any relevant personal context you feel comfortable sharing
4. **Technical Requirements**
* Space needs for your work (wall space, floor space, special installation requirements)
* Any special lighting, sound, or environmental considerations
* Assistance needed with installation (if applicable)
### Selection Process
Submissions will be reviewed by a panel including the exhibition organizers and mental health professionals with arts backgrounds. Selection criteria include:
* Artistic quality and visual impact
* Authentic connection to exhibition themes
* Diversity of perspectives and experiences
* Technical feasibility within exhibition constraints
All applicants will receive notification of decisions within 30 days of the submission deadline.
### Important Dates
* Submission Deadline: [INSERT DATE]
* Artist Notification: [INSERT DATE]
* Artwork Delivery: [INSERT DATE]
* Exhibition Opening: [INSERT DATE]
* Exhibition Closing: [INSERT DATE]
### Contact Information
For questions or additional information about submissions, please contact:
**Scott Engel**
Exhibition Curator
[INSERT EMAIL]
[INSERT PHONE]
**Elyse Barton**
Co Curator
253-754-0912
*"Transformations" is committed to creating an inclusive, supportive environment for all participating artists. If you require accommodations or assistance with the submission process, please don't hesitate to reach out.*