Art exhibit examines isolation, stigma of mental health

Sussex County Community College (SCCC), through the Alpha Arts Institute, and the county Department of Health and Human Services have partnered to premier “Embrace the Elephant in the Room,” an original visual arts exhibition.

The exhibit highlights the importance of visual, performing and literary arts and their therapeutic components in recognition of May as Mental Health Awareness Month.

Maureen Slamer is a featured artist in the first SCCC Festival of the Arts. The exhibition would not be possible without the collaborative efforts of the Sussex County Mental Health Task Force, Bridgeway Behavioral Health Services and the SCCC Student Success Center.

From paintings to drawings to illustrations and collages, Slamer has creatively connected themes of isolation and stigma related to mental health throughout her modes of art.

“My artwork can be relatable, engaging, gently disturbing, instill a sense of charm, whimsy and delightful play. This exhibition is to inspire open dialogue and create human connection,” she said.

Slamer holds a bachelor’s degree in fine art from William Paterson University and a master’s in art therapy from Marywood University.

“The Sussex County Department of Health and Human Services is proud to partner with the college through their newly formed and innovative Alpha Arts Institute,” said Christine Florio, health and human services administrator.

“Collaborating on such an important joint effort to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health and encourage seeking help speaks to our collective commitment to improving the quality of life for our residents.”

Herbert Yardley, deputy commissioner director, said he is looking forward to the exhibit.

“Isolation and the stigma surrounding mental health are growing concerns across the nation and something everyone should be aware of, especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 crisis. I commend the college and all participating groups for highlighting this extremely important topic in a unique and creative fashion.”

The opening event at 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 3 is free and open to the public. It will be in the atrium of the Performing Arts Center, One College Hill Road, Newton. Jon Connolly, president of SCCC, will deliver opening remarks.

During the exhibition, there will be a question-and-answer session with Slamer and host Daniel Cosentino, dean of arts and humanities and director of the SCCC Alpha Arts Institute. Staff from local service organizations and mental health agencies will be on site to provide information on various services and programs.

The exhibition will remain on display through July 28.

Families are welcome to attend; children’s activities will be available.

Funding for the Alpha Arts Institute at SCCC’s Festival of the Arts has been made available in part by the New Jersey State Council on the Arts/Department of State, a Partner Agency of the National Endowment for the Arts, through the State/County Partnership Block Grant Program, as administered by the Sussex County Arts and Heritage Council.