The New Hampshire Art Association is pleased to announce the opening of “mindFUL,” at the State St Gallery.
Concord-area artist Yasamin Safarzaden curates the much-anticipated 24th annual Joan L. Dunfey Open Juried Exhibition, titled “mindFUL,” at the Robert Lincoln Levy Gallery in Portsmouth in November.
“MindFUL” challenges artists to employ their creative talents to shed light on mental health, raise awareness about this topic, and encourage meaningful conversations. Art, with its profound ability to inspire change, break stigma, and foster a supportive community, plays an essential role in addressing the complexities of mental health experiences. The exhibition aspires to spread empathy and create a space for reflection and dialogue.
Curated by the artist Yasamin Safarzaden, an Angelino, Iranian American, and transplant to New England, “mindFUL” celebrates the intersections of cultural identities. Yasamin Safarzaden is known for her dedication to creating safe spaces where people can discover their sense of self without the pressure to conform. Her work encapsulates an absurd and ecstatic celebration of bodies, awkward spaces, anxious burdens, and the global impacts of colonization when confronted with hope and defiance.
The “mindFUL” exhibition invites artists from diverse backgrounds to share their interpretations of mental health experiences, drawing from personal, cultural, and social perspectives. By presenting a rich tapestry of art, “mindFUL” aims to create an open dialogue about mental health and challenge stereotypes, ultimately fostering a more understanding and supportive community.
This event will be a unique opportunity to explore the transformative power of art and the influence it can have on the discourse surrounding mental health. The Joan L. Dunfey Open Juried Exhibition has been a cornerstone of the New Hampshire Art Association’s calendar, and “mindFUL” promises to continue this legacy by addressing a vital societal issue. This exhibition is sponsored by the Joan L. Dunfey Fund for the Arts through the New Hampshire Charitable Fund.
“MindFUL” will be held in the Main Gallery of the Robert Lincoln Levy Gallery from Nov. 1 through the 28th. The NHAA is hosting a reception on Nov. 3, from 5 to 8 p.m. as part of the Art Around Town First Friday art walk in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Robert Lincoln Levy Gallery at 136 State Street in Portsmouth, NH. Gallery hours are Tuesday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Visit nhartassociation.org or call 603-431-4230 for more information.