MONTGOMERY -- The Visionary Guild for Mentally Ill Artists will be hosting an art education retreat September 15-18, 1999, at Camp ASCCA for artists with all disabilities.

The retreat is being funded through a grant from the Alabama State Arts Council with staff assistance from the Alabama Department of Mental Health and Mental Retardation’s Office of Consumer Relations. Between 9 and 12 artists have registered to attend. Guest artist Marcia Leonard will be on hand to provide art instruction. "We see The Visionary Guild as an ally in our battle against the stigma traditionally associated with mental illness," said DMH/MR Commissioner Kathy Sawyer. "We strongly support their art education activities and are looking forward to seeing their beautiful and creative work."

The Visionary Guild for Mentally Ill Artists is an organization comprised of Alabama artists and writers who have experienced mental illness. The Visionary Guild was founded in 1991 by Carole Eskridge. Its purpose is to promote the art and writing of its members, while also promoting the talents and efforts of persons with mental illness. "Showcasing the creative talents of Visionary Guild members helps overcome the myths and stereotypes too often attached to persons with mental illness," said Ann Denbo, President of The Visionary Guild’s Board of Directors.

The Visionary Guild has had numerous statewide exhibitions, including one at the Alabama Governor’s Mansion and one at The Alabama State Artists Gallery. The Visionary Guild has also been featured at The Very Special Arts Gallery in Washington, D.C.