The Reynolds introduces 'Infinite Possibilities Explores Mental Illness and Recovery'
January 22, 2015
Funded by grants from the Virginia Commission for the Arts and Outreach and International Affairs at Virginia Tech, the collaborative exhibition Infinite Possibilities on display at the Reynolds Homestead provides a probing exploration of mental illness and recovery.
Art as an expression of self enables an artist to look deeply into his or her own psyche and express emotions or thoughts that are not always easy to share otherwise. This fall, in collaboration with Patrick County and Martinsville Piedmont Community Services, Lisa Martin and Sarah Wray worked with clients who face illnesses or challenges, to allow them to express to the world either their view of themselves or how they view the world. From this project, the exhibition “Infinite Possibilities” was born.
Grant funding was secured for the project and the first step was to purchase digital cameras for the fifteen Patrick and Henry county participants. Instrumental in the project was the help of the Patrick Henry Photography Club at the Reynolds Homestead. Members Jim Keesee and Pat Justus worked with the clients to help them understand the elements of good photography and evaluate their work.
“As a photographer, this was one of the best projects I’ve ever participated in, maybe the best,” said Justus. “Listening to each participant explain how the photo reflected their illness was just incredible. And the photos are amazing.”
The photo pictured here is by Kyle Erickson, entitled “The Overwhelming Scream.” Erickson explained that “this photograph is meant to show how the destructive voice of schizophrenia can feel overwhelming and so large that it is not beatable.” Kyle uses his art to handle the day-to-day stress of having schizophrenia.
Each participant has two pieces in the show will also receive a personal photo album with 20 of their favorite photos. Photography club member Donna Joyce assisted staff in matting and framing the exhibition before its installation. The remainder of the grant money is being used to print the photos, purchase mats and frames, and create a gallery book for visitors to enjoy.
The public is invited to attend the opening reception on Saturday, January 24 from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. for a chance to meet the artists view the complete exhibition. Refreshments will be served.
“I encourage everyone to come out and support these brave and insightful artists,” said Martin. “The introspective nature of the work and the amazing self-awareness of the artists is inspiring.”
“Infinite Possibilities” will be on exhibition at the Reynolds Homestead through February 27 before going on tour.
# # # Photo caption: “The Overwhelming Scream” by Kyle Erickson of Woolwine.
Lisa S. Martin Senior Program Manager Reynolds Homestead / Virginia Tech
