Janet and I have sponsored an upcoming art fair that is held in support of the Southeast Minnesota chapter of NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness). We will also set up a tent there. Here's a link to the event Facebook page. Thanks to Melissa Eggler Art for organizing the event.

We made the following statement when submitting our sponsor application:

"We both have family members living with mental illness, and have seen the benefits of having access to quality mental health care. Sometimes our art diverts us from the stresses of daily life; other times it calls attention to them, a necessary step to overcome them."

[Above photo: "Compassion", by Rick Swanson]

Rick will have a number of pieces at the show such as those featured here, portraying themes related to emotionally challenging topics such as grief, sexual abuse, and depression. Jan will have a selection of her painted and sewn works at the fair.

Mental illness touches nearly everyone, either directly or indirectly, so if you or a loved one need support, we hope you find it.