The Ryan Joiner Foundation and Quinlan Visual Arts Center proudly present the inaugural Connections in Color: Mental Health Art Contest. Join us on May 6th at the Quinlan Visual Arts Center (514 Green St, Gainesville, GA 30501) from 5-7pm for a captivating reception, where you can view all the artworks created during the competition. The winning artists will be announced at 6 pm.

Throughout the day, from 9 am to 5 pm, immerse yourself in the talent and creativity of our local students as their submitted artworks adorn the Quinlan's walls. Let's come together to honor and celebrate these young artists for their incredible contributions to our community and their dedication to raising awareness about mental health and the power of connection.

In addition to recognition, the top three winners will each receive $250 in cash prizes, with an additional $250 awarded to their school's art department. Furthermore, their winning pieces will be magnified into public art, adorning the Hall Area Transit building at 687 Main Street SW, Gainesville, GA 30501. These monumental artworks will serve as beacons, reminding us all of the vital role social connections play in our collective mental well-being.

But the celebration doesn't end there! Throughout the summer, the Quinlan will showcase not only the winning pieces but also five honorable mentions, providing a platform for these budding artists to shine and share their creativity with the community. Let's join hands and hearts in support of each other's well-being, as we continue to champion Mental Health Awareness through the language of art.