Opening during National Suicide Prevention Month, the Breaking Silence Art Exhibit opens on First Friday, September 4, 2026, from 5-7 p.m. at the Adams County Arts Council’s Arts Education Center. The goal is to bring our community together through art and encourage conversations about mental health to reduce stigma. The exhibit will be on display throughout the month of September during the Center’s regular hours.
This exhibit highlights the importance of creating spaces where mental health conversations can happen openly. Although mental health affects individuals, families, and communities, it remains a topic that is often difficult to discuss. This can be due to stigma, fear of judgment, and long-standing beliefs that have encouraged people to remain silent.
Breaking Silence provides a safe space for individuals to share experiences that can be difficult to express through words alone. Local and regional artists, as well as community members, are invited to submit artwork for consideration to be displayed as part of the exhibit. Entry information and submission details are available at www.adamsarts.org. Artwork submissions are due by August 25, 2026.
A special community mental health program will expand the exhibit by encouraging community engagement and connection. The program will take place on Saturday, September 12 from 2-5 p.m. and will feature guest speakers including local crisis professionals and mental health organizations who will share resources and support. Local residents, businesses, organizations, and community partners are encouraged to attend, participate, and help support a more open conversation about mental health.
“The goal of Breaking Silence is to create a welcoming space where people can express experiences that too often remain hidden because mental health has long been surrounded by stigma and generational beliefs that encouraged people to stay silent,” said exhibit organizer Ms. Smith. “Art has the ability to connect people, inspire understanding, and remind us that no one has to face mental health challenges alone.”
Both the exhibit and community program are free and open to the public.
Event Information
- Exhibit Dates: September 4 – 26
- Location: Adams County Arts Council, 125 South Washington Street, Gettysburg, PA 17325
- Opening Reception: Friday, September 4, 2026, from 5-7 p.m.
- Community Program: Saturday, September 12, 2026, from 2-5 p.m.
- Artwork Submission Deadline: August 25, 2026
- Admission: Free and open to the public
- Exhibit Hours: Available during normal business hours
For additional information, please contact:
Ms. Smith
Adams County Arts Council
aa@adamsarts.org
(717) 334-5006
The mission of the Adams County Arts Council is to cultivate an arts-rich community. Learn more at www.adamsarts.org.