As part of the National Alliance for Mental Illness in the Wood River Valley’s (NAMI-WRV) “StigmaFree” initiatives, local artists are invited to contribute artwork for the 2019 “Journey to Wellness” art show. The annual event will be held Monday, March 11 from 5:30 PM-7:30 PM at the KIC building (Ketchum Innovation Center), 180 6th St W, Ketchum. Now in its third year, the benefits asks local artists to generously submit works related to mental health and wellness to be auctioned-off to benefit mental health resources in the community. This year, participating artists are encouraged to create a work in a medium of their choice that explores or conveys ideas about mental illness, health, and wellness through the 2019 theme of “Birds,” in honor of NAMI-WRV’s teen support groups named the Bluebirds. The group’s theme suggests, “sometimes when you’re feeling down and blue, remember you will fly.” Thus, artist’s are encouraged to tie their concepts of mental illness, health, and wellness in execution of work in the spirit of birds, rebirth, and overcoming obstacles in solidarity and support for the teen groups. “The way our talented and compassionate community comes together for a cause never ceases to amaze,” says NAMI-WRV President, Daniel Hansen. “This is a great event to display the amazing talent in our community, connect with others, enjoy great food and drink, and raise funds and awareness for a vital cause. For inspiration, themed works are encouraged but all submissions are welcome.” In addition to the artist submissions, NAMI-WRV invites the public to build birdhouses to be displayed and auctioned in support of the cause. Wood River Valley architects, interior designers, landscape architects, engineers, and contractors are encouraged to design and construct birdhouses to submit. Submissions must be suitable in scale and materials to be used as actual outdoor birdhouses, including use of non-toxic paint in the event birds chip away at the finish. Birdhouse or artwork donations may be submitted by dropping them off at the NAMI-WRV office at the Community Campus in Hailey (1050 Fox Acres Rd.) Monday-Thursday between 9 AM-6PM, from February 25-March 7. Alternatively, submissions can be brought to the KIC, between 9 AM-6 PM on Friday, March 8. NAMI-WRV is committed to breaking down barriers of mental health stigmas so those in need can get the help they deserve. All funds raised from this event support NAMI-WRV’s free public support groups and services in the Wood River Valley, for youth, individuals, and families.