There is something very powerful about art. It is therapeutic and expressive. It is individualized. It has the power to make an impact and tell a story. Those affected by mental illness use art to help in their journey with coping and recovery. That was the thought process behind NAMI Wichita Falls’ 
“Gray Matters: the colors of mental illness” art exhibit that was held on Saturday, October 7th at 9th Street Studios. 17 local artists came together to bring awareness and fight the stigmas associated with mental illness.
“Mental illness affects almost everyone,” says NAMI Wichita Falls Executive Director, Jessica Cartwright. “Either individually or as a caregiver, friend, or family member of someone affected by mental illness.” According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), one in four adults are affected by mental illness each year.
Each artist was invited to contribute art pieces and narratives that reflected their experiences with mental illness. Some had stories and pieces about themselves, while others that attended had experienced mental illness through a family member. The different mental illnesses represented during the event included depression, anxiety, bipolar, self-harm OCD, schizoaffective, and more.
Artists included current MSU students, MSU alumni, behavioral health professionals, an art teacher, a nurse, local business owners, and professional artists. “We are beyond honored to have these artists be a part of this project and to
help bring awareness to such a misunderstood and taboo subject,” says Cartwright.
The different media showcased included paintings, drawings, photography, embroidery, mixed media, digital, printmaking, and crotchet. There was an interactive piece, “Lost” by artist Teresa Lopez, where had you put back together a piece of her work. There were some pieces that were missing, small pieces of paper, larger pieces, and extra pieces.
Throughout the event, the room stayed full with guests (about 75 total) and stories. Looking around 9th Street Studios, artists and patrons chatted, sharing stories, and gaining understanding. Dru Grid provided the perfect music for the event as a solo artist, and Savor It Catering provided the food. Two art pieces were sold during the event as well.
The event was well organized, impactful, and left people talking about mental illness. Darlene Hankins, who attended the event, said, “The artists displayed the best in humanity – giftedness, passion, compassion, and best of all, hope. The art was so profound, unique, and beautiful in expressing mental illness.” Another attendee said, “Experiencing Gray Matters was emotionally impactful. It opened up conversations and allowed people to acknowledge the impact mental illness has had.”
Cartwright says they are gearing up for making this an annual public awareness event. “I cannot wait until next year. I really think this event is going to grow, and it needs to. As a community, we need to talk about mental illness, and know that it is always okay to ask for help.”
