The Museum of Contemporary Art Jacksonville (MOCA), a cultural institute of the University of North Florida, will present the exhibition “Fearless,” featuring teen artwork exploring creative responses to anxiety.
This exhibition offers a rare, vulnerable glimpse into the inner world of adolescents and honors their bravery in stepping forward.
“Fearless” showcases the artwork of 80 students from LaVilla School of the Arts and Episcopal School of Jacksonville, created through a mental health-centered curriculum designed by JACK Mental Health Advocacy. Using therapeutic prompts and conversation starters provided by JACK, teachers guided their students in exploring themes of anxiety, inner resilience, identity and emotional expression — all through art.
JACK is a partner in #IGETIT, a national Mental Health Awareness Month campaign by Kevin Bacon’s nonprofit SixDegrees.org that’s bringing people together to normalize mental health conversations and share accessible tools for well-being. #IGETIT, is a community of nonprofits and advocates uplifting mental health stories, amplifying organizations and flooding social media with accessible resources that meet people where they are in their journey.
You can participate by sharing your own #IGETIT moment or explore the #IGETIT Mental Health Resource Guide at sixdegreesorg.short.gy/jackmha, a curated collection of books, podcasts, videos, hotlines and other tools to support mental well-being.
“Fearless” is on view at MOCA Jacksonville through June 10, closing out Mental Health Awareness Month.
About JACK Mental Health Advocacy JACK is a nonprofit created to change the way those with OCD anxiety and their families navigate the challenges of mental illness, fight stigma and obtain quality education, support and treatment.
Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States, affecting 40 million adults. OCD affects 1% to 2% of the population globally. Consequently, it is surprising that those with OCD and anxiety and their families lack the resources they need to navigate myriad challenges effectively.
JACK’s goal is to remove that gap in information and programming.
About SixDegrees.org SixDegrees.org is a 501(c)3 that has been harnessing good since 2007. It was founded by Golden Globe-winning actor, musician and philanthropist Kevin Bacon on the principle that everyone is in need of connection.
SixDegrees supports impactful initiatives to sustain and enrich local communities. Its work centers on youth empowerment, justice and equality, and improving a sustainable living environment.
For more information about MOCA, including hours of operation, admission prices and upcoming exhibitions and programs, call 904-366-6911 or go to mocajacksonville.unf.edu.
