Reception: Wednesday, October 7, 5–7 pm

First the Pain I explores the pain one may experience when suffering with a mental illness or addiction, or when affected by a loved one’s condition. By looking at the anguish of those impacted by mental illness and addiction, people may better understand the nature of these illnesses and the stigma that compounds them. Through art, this exhibition delves into the pain surrounding these conditions, public perceptions, and empathy.

First the Pain I combines works by current MICA students with pieces created by regional artists. The exhibition is co-curated by Peter Bruun ’89 (Mount Royal School of Art MFA) and Alyse Ruriani ’17 (Graphic Design BFA) of MICA’s NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Baltimore student chapter. It is part of the New Day Campaign, an arts-based initiative to challenge the stigma and discrimination associated with mental illness and addiction.

Gallery hours: Monday-Saturday, 10 am-5 pm; Sunday, noon-5 pm; closed major holidays