The annual Texas Mental Health Creative Arts Contest is announcing its call for submissions from December 1, 2021, until March 15, 2022. The contest is meant to raise awareness of mental health issues.
It is hosted by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) in partnership with the Texas System of Care and the Texas Institute for Excellence in Mental Health at the University of Texas at Austin.
There are three categories that participants can submit their work, including original artwork, writing, or photography. Participants may choose any of the three categories but must remain within the theme of “Why Does Mental Health Matter to You?”
“When people share their perspectives and experiences through art, it can help them process their emotions and kickstart conversations that inspire connection, provide encouragement, and give hope to others facing similar challenges,” said Dr. Courtney Harvey, associate commissioner of HHSC’s Office of Mental Health Coordination. “Those healthy discussions can be the push someone may need to seek support and really start taking care of their mental health, and that can save lives.”
The contest is meant to illuminate why mental health matters and educate people about the prevalence of mental illnesses in our communities.
It is also a way to encourage Texans to seek help when they need it and look to treat mental illness. Winners in each age group and category could receive prizes and have their work recognized in public galleries, including the Texas State Capitol.
Submissions will be judged based on originality, creativity, and how well their entry expresses the theme. The top entries will be selected by a team of judges appointed for each category and grade level, if applicable.
Winning entries could potentially be posted online on the Texas System of Care website and used in promotional materials. The contest is open to Texans of all ages. For more information on how people can submit artwork, visit gallery.txsystemofcare.org.
