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About the organization

The Awakenings Project is a nonprofit arts organization founded in 1996 in Illinois, dedicated to supporting artists who live with mental illness. Its mission is to assist these artists in developing their creative skills, exhibiting their work, and gaining recognition within the broader arts community. By providing studio space, exhibition opportunities, and a supportive network, the project seeks to dismantle stigma and foster a more inclusive cultural landscape. The organization operates with a belief in the transformative power of art for both individual well-being and social change, emphasizing process, community, and sustained creative practice over commercial outcomes.

Opportunities

3 listed

Application guidance

Artists interested in engaging with The Awakenings Project should first explore the organization's website to understand its programs and current opportunities. The project typically welcomes artists who self-identify as living with mental illness, and there is no cost to participate. Submissions are often accepted on a rolling basis for group exhibitions and studio access; prospective participants are encouraged to contact staff directly to discuss their practice and needs. Given the supportive nature of the organization, artists are advised to present work that reflects their authentic voice, with an emphasis on process and personal expression rather than polished commercial appeal. It is also recommended to review past exhibitions and artist statements to gauge fit and to reach out with any questions about accessibility and accommodations.

Awakeningsproject — Arts Organization