News & Events at Sinnissippi Centers, Inc.

7th Annual Art & Photography Exhibit to Feature Screening of the Film “Canvas”

“Coloring Our World” is the theme for the 7th Annual Art & Photography Exhibit, which will be held Friday May 16, 2008 10:00 am - 9:00 pm and Saturday May 17, 2008 10:00 am - 5:00 pm at the Northland Mall in Sterling.

The Art & Photography Exhibit celebrates Mental as Health Month which is designated each year to increase awareness about mental health issues.

In addition to featuring the artistic talents of Sinnissippi consumers and other members of the “Sinnissippi Community” (staff and family), one additional feature of this year’s Art & Photography Exhibit is the screening of the award winning film Canvas, which is considered a realistic portrayal of a family dealing with schizophrenia.  Writer and director Joe Greco based the film on his own family’s experiences with mental illness.  The cast includes Joe Pantoliano, an Emmy-Award winning actor and Marcia Gay Haden, an Academy Award winning actress.

The Art & Photography Exhibit will also include live art demonstration, light refreshments and free admission.  For information call Andy Jackson, event coordinator at 815-284-6611

Expressions Fundraiser for The Sinnissippi Foundation scheduled for April 25th at The Next Picture Show

There will be one common theme among the paintings, photos and sculptures for sale during the 4th Annual Expressions Art Sale and Reception: to raise funds for The Sinnissippi Foundation and its mission to improve the mental health and well being of individuals and families.

The Expressions Art Sale and Reception will be held the evening of Friday, April 25, 2008, at The Next Picture Show (113 West First Street, Dixon) from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. 

Many of the same artists who have given previously to this cause have again agreed to do so this year:  Artists who have agreed to donate an original piece to Expressions include several well known individuals from this area, including Michael Gerry, Joy Meyer, Judy Dixon, Phil Mattox, Ann Marie Potts, Jack Wohlstadter, Brad Walker, Thomas Mangelsen, George Aune, Willard Clay, Mary Crebo, Jane Sheaffer, Doris Milne, Judith Stavrakas, Debbie Deets, Rick Munson, Bob Logsdon, Pat Lathe, Deb Munson, Salem Barker, Lisa Higby LeFevre, Beverly Garcia and Todd Lorenc.

Proceeds will be used by The Sinnissippi Foundation to promote mental wellness and to benefit persons with a mental illness. A new addition to this year’s event is the inclusion of a section for artwork that depicts children and families. 

All art work that is donated to the Expressions Art Sale will be on display at The Next Picture Show beginning Monday, April 21st and will remain up through the evening of the event. Persons who are interested in purchasing an item may do so at any time during the week of Expressions.

Beginning in March, an art catalogue with photos of all art work will be available at The Next Picture Show. Art will also be displayed on the homepage of this website and also on The Next Picture Show’s web site at www.thenextpictureshow.org

In addition to the art sale, the Expressions event on April 25th will also feature a silent auction, live music, hors d’oeuvres and refreshments. There is no cost to attend.  For more information on the Expressions Art Sale and Reception call Greg Gates of The Sinnissippi Foundation at (815) 284-9380.