Fairfax Library To Host Pathway Homes Artists Reception

FAIRFAX CITY, VA — Pathway Homes will celebrate the work of artists recovering from serious mental illness during a free public reception next week at the City of Fairfax Regional Library, where the nonprofit's annual Summer of the Arts exhibit has been on display throughout July.

The Artist Reception is scheduled for Tuesday, July 28, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at the library, 10360 North St., in Fairfax. U.S. Rep. James Walkinshaw (D-11th) is expected to speak during the event, which marks the conclusion of Pathway Homes' 13th Annual Summer of the Arts exhibit.

The monthlong exhibit features artwork created by Pathway Homes clients who have experienced homelessness and are recovering from serious mental illness and co-occurring disorders. The reception will give visitors an opportunity to meet the artists, learn about their work and hear how art has supported their recovery journeys.

Art Exhibit Highlights Recovery Through Creativity

According to Pathway Homes, creativity plays an important role in the recovery process for many of its clients. Most of the artwork on display is available for purchase, with all proceeds going directly to the artists.

Featured speakers and participants are expected to include Pathway Homes CEO Sylisa Lambert-Woodard, artist and poet Yerusalem Work, other client artists, and local elected officials and community leaders.

The exhibit honors the memory of Karen Free, a Pathway Homes resident and artist who died in 2011. Pathway Homes, a Northern Virginia nonprofit, provides housing and supportive mental health services for people living with serious mental illness and other co-occurring disabilities.

The exhibit and reception are free and open to the public. Artwork will remain on display at the City of Fairfax Regional Library through the end of July during normal library hours.