Creative Arts Showcase highlights value of words
Narratives QC is kicking off Mental Health Awareness Month with an evening of creativity featuring local young adults.
The inaugural Creative Arts Showcase is an evening of spoken word and poetry performed by talented local young adults. This free celebration of the power of words, the free event will be on Wednesday, May 1 at the Rock Island Library, Watts-Midtown Branch, 2715 30th Street in Rock Island. Performances start at 6 p.m.
The Creative Arts Showcase celebrates the impact expressive arts has on emotional well-being, especially for those ages 17-25. Narratives QC’s programming participants will share their personal stories and creative poems, highlighting their journeys and the benefits of spoken word.
“Sharing our stories is more than a form of expression; it’s a way to change the narrative surrounding young adulthood,” said Dr. Annette Clevenger, founder of Narratives. “We know that 75 % of lifelong mental illness starts during these critical years. By giving voice to their experiences, our participants not only find creative outlets to heal themselves but also challenge and enrich our community’s understanding of the perspectives and contributions of today’s young adults.”
A grant from Quad City Arts ensures the event is free for the public. “Since 1979, our Arts Dollars program has been granting funds to artists and organizations, helping them to engage their community, see a long-lasting benefit from the completed projects, and pay artists for their work in the process,” said Ben Gougeon, Events Coordinator at Quad City Arts. “The work programs like Narratives QC facilitate in our community is invaluable, and we’re thrilled seeing these projects come to life.”
For more information on Narratives QC, click here or email contact@narrativesqc.org.
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