MONTGOMERY— Over 100 pieces of artwork by consumer artists with mental illness, mental retardation, or substance addition illness from across the state of Alabama will be on display in the Alabama State Capitol Building during the month of August. The exhibit will include the work of 110-year-old consumer artist Mr. Frank Calloway, who resides at the Alice Kidd Nursing Home on the Bryce Hospital campus in Tuscaloosa.

The Capitol Showcase Consumer Art Exhibit gives consumers the opportunity to display their artistic abilities to the public. Along with their artwork, consumer artists also give heartfelt testimonies about the obstacles they have overcome in their lives.

“I am 37 year old man with Down Syndrome,” said consumer artist Benjamin. “I can walk, talk, feed myself, swim, play the drums, read and go to school. Some people did not think I would ever do anything.”

The exhibit is an excellent opportunity to promote consumer dignity and gain more understanding of individuals the Alabama Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation serves.

“We are encouraging everyone to visit the Capitol Showcase Exhibit. The immense talent and courage displayed by these individuals is inspiring,” said Acting Commissioner John Houston. “Hopefully, people will walk away from the exhibit with a greater respect and deeper understanding of people with mental disabilities.”

The exhibit is sponsored by the Alabama Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation. The opportunity to view these unique works will end August 31, 2005.
For more information about the exhibit, call (334) 242-3417.