Pathway Homes hosted an Artist Reception as part of its 11th Annual Summer of the Arts Exhibit, where Pathway Homes’ residents who have mental health challenges showcase and sell their own art, poetry, and crafts. More than 83 pieces from 18 artists are on display throughout July in the South Atrium of the Fairfax County Government Center. Artists receive 100 percent of the proceeds. 

The July 10 reception brought together the artists, providing attendees a chance to meet these talented people and celebrate their artistry. Pathway Homes is a nonprofit providing mental health services — starting with safe, stable housing — to individuals marginalized by poverty and inequity. Art and creativity are an integral part of recovery for Pathway Homes’ residents.

During the reception, Pathway Homes’ resident Sherril Crawford, whose work is on display, read a poem that she wrote. As for her inspiration, she expressed that: “Doing art gives you a vision of hope. Everything will be ok.”

The exhibit is open to the public on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through July 31. 

Artist bios and photos of their works are also available for viewing and sale at sota.pathwayhomes.org/artists. The reception and exhibit support the unique talents of Pathway Homes’ residents and enable them to express their journeys to recovery through their unique and personal artwork. The exhibit also honors Karen Free, a Pathway Homes resident and artist who passed away in 2011.

For more than 44 years, Pathway Homes has enabled tens of thousands of people in Northern Virginia with serious mental illnesses and other co-occurring disabilities to get housing and supportive services to help them recover their lives.