Title:
Donation - Mental Health Faces of Diversity Mural
Summary
ACTION:
Pursuant to G.S. 153A-158, recognize and receive the gift of the "Mental Health Faces of Diversity" mural from local artist Edwin Gil and Mental Health America (MHA) to be displayed in the Mecklenburg County courthouse
Staff Contact: Sonya L. Harper, Director, Criminal Justice Services (CJS)
Presentation: No
BACKGROUND/JUSTIFICATION:
In 2018, MHA shared with CJS they were working to find a place to display the "Mental Health Faces in Diversity" mural that was commissioned in 2017 by local contemporary conceptual artist, Edwin Gil. The work highlights faces of mental health represented by local community members and is part of the international social art project, Faces of Diversity. Mr. Gil and MHA would like to donate the mural to Mecklenburg County for permanent display in the courthouse.
Mental Health America of Central Carolinas is a non-profit organization, founded in 1933 in Charlotte. MHA’s mission is promoting mental wellness through advocacy, prevention and education in Mecklenburg and Cabarrus Counties. MHA’s vision is to be the community's leading voice to reduce stigma around seeking treatment for mental health concerns, and to advocate for effective mental health services in our community. In 2017 when MHA hosted its inaugural Art In Mind event, the organization and generous donors commissioned the Mental Health Faces in Diversity, featuring likenesses of a young program participant, an MHA volunteer and an MHA donor - all personally affected by mental health concerns. The mural was created by Edwin Gil, an art teacher at Providence Day School and an avid social activist, who uses his art to bridge cultures and diverse groups living in the U.S. Gil has overcome numerous obstacles to become one of America’s premier Latino Artists. Faces of Diversity Projects are breaking stereotypes through art and use intentional dialogue to help participants see how we're all connected and special in our own way. The Mental Health Faces of Diversity mural reflects the universality of mental health conditions, affecting every race, culture, and socio-economic group, gender and age.
PROCUREMENT BACKGROUND:
N/A
POLICY IMPACT:
N/A
FISCAL IMPACT:
Costs associated with installing the mural.