In recognition of Mental Health Month, the 411 Gallery is set to host a compelling art exhibit featuring the works of local artist Kimberly Rose Free. Titled “Psyche Relics,” the exhibit will offer a poignant portrayal of Free’s personal journey through psychiatric treatment spanning three decades.
Located at 411 Sixth St. in downtown Columbus, the exhibit will run from May 1 to May 24, offering visitors a thought-provoking exploration of mental health through a diverse array of 2D and 3D artworks. An artist reception is scheduled for Thursday, May 2, from 5 to 7 p.m., providing an opportunity for attendees to engage with Free and gain deeper insights into her creative process.
Organized by the Columbus Area Arts Council in collaboration with Mental Health Matters, the exhibition sheds light on the intricate nuances of living with serious mental illness, as depicted through Free’s evocative drawings and sculptures. Using found paper and objects, Free’s artworks serve as visual narratives, documenting the often unseen challenges and triumphs of navigating psychiatric treatment.
Through her vulnerability and artistic expression, Free invites viewers to join her on a journey towards emotional well-being, exploring themes of self-discovery and healing. The exhibit delves into various aspects of treatment, including journaling, therapy sessions, electroconvulsive therapy, and medication trials, with a blend of gratitude and humor.
Free, a Columbus-based artist, channels her inner and outer realities into her daily creative practice as a form of mindfulness and recovery from chronic pain and depression. With a focus on simplicity and authenticity, she employs drawing and painting to articulate her lived experiences and offer glimpses into her ongoing journey towards wellness.
Managed by the Columbus Area Arts Council, the 411 Gallery serves as a vibrant community space for art exhibitions, events, and collaborations. Situated in downtown Columbus on the Sixth Street Arts Alley, the gallery fosters creativity and cultural engagement at the heart of the city.
The Columbus Area Arts Council, a non-profit organization, is dedicated to enriching the community through a range of arts projects and initiatives, including exhibitions, local artist development programs, and grants to support artists and organizations.
Mental Health Matters, Bartholomew Co. Initiative, stands as a vital community-wide effort aimed at addressing mental health challenges and enhancing the well-being of youth and adults in Bartholomew County. Through collaborative initiatives and advocacy, the organization strives to foster a supportive and inclusive environment for mental health awareness and resources.
