September 24, 2018

“Beautiful, 2018,” an art exhibition from the Behavioral Health Art Therapy Program, Asian Counseling Referral Service, opened Sept. 24 at the School of Social Work First Floor Gallery. 

The work, which features 10 to 15 artists (pictured, right), offers a glimpse into the complicated intersections of ethnicity, perceived identities and emotional struggles. The exhibit will be on display through Dec. 7.

Art therapy can help individuals with mental health issues improve their cognitive ability as well as nurture their creative side. ACRS Behavioral Health Art Therapy Program creates an inclusive, friendly, safe and professional environment in an art studio setting. This allows individuals to more comfortably discover their internal strengths and develop a stronger sense of self, which can contribute to the recovery process.  

Artists from the Behavioral Health Art Therapy Program have displayed their work in several shows, at holiday sales, and in collaboration with commercial galleries. The program has also been promoted on King 5 Evening and the Seattle Channel’s CityStream.