Artists’ creations to bolster local mental health services at Friday auction
Artists around the community and from many walks of life, from high school pupils to area business professionals, are putting their creative talents toward a purposeful pursuit in recent weeks to help raise awareness of the importance of mental health through the Windows of Hope event.
Approximately 20 unique entries housed within wood-framed windows have been prepared by various area organizations and agencies for this third annual event, which is slated for 6 to 7:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 13, at the Recovery Zone of Logan County, 440 S. St. Paris St., Bellefontaine.
Bids begin at $50 per window at the silent auction, and the bidding ends at 7:15 p.m.
Proceeds from the event benefit the Recovery Zone and the Suicide Prevention Coalition of Logan and Champaign Counties through continued awareness, prevention and support services in Logan County.
Recovery Zone Director Kathy Zeller said the planning for Windows of Hope began several years ago, when Recovery Zone member Gina Kennedy brought up the idea of conducting an event to bolster local mental health services in a fundraiser that was similar to the Doors of EnCOURAGEment effort conducted each spring for the Logan County Cancer Society, but on a smaller scale.
“Working on Gina’s idea, we came up with the Windows of Hope project, and Stephanie Ketchell from the Suicide Prevention Coalition and I collaborated to make it happen,” said Zeller, who said she was serving as a volunteer with the Recovery Zone at the time.
“We had our first year in December 2016. We didn’t have the fundraiser the following year, but had the second annual event last year.
“It’s been amazing to witness all of the support from our community to create these beautiful pieces; we have just been overwhelmed by all of the kind people who live here and want to help. Best Door & Window also has donated the wood-framed windows for the event, and we are so appreciative of their generosity.
“This Friday evening will be a special night as well, with several people sharing their stories of hope before the silent auction begins.”
Throughout this week, the Recovery Zone of Logan County’s Facebook page will feature photos of the entries so that participants can have a preview of the auction.
One of the Windows of Hope artists, Barbara Harpst of Belle Center, said participating in this event and creating two unique pieces was an endeavor that was close to her heart. After discovering her painting talent about two years ago, she has started teaching local painting classes, including several classes with Recovery Zone members through Pastor Shelly Stephenson’s ministries.
“My passion is to use my talent to help others,” said Harpst, who also works full-time at Citizens Federal Savings & Loan. “I love to see the smiles and confidence of those that I help create their own masterpiece.
“It’s a privilege that I can spend time with the Recovery Zone members. They are a little family — they love and support each other.
“During this last paint class, someone asked me if I’d heard of the Windows of Hope program. When they told me what it was about, I was so excited! So a few days after that, I picked up two windows from the Recovery Zone and got started.”
The local artist said the inspiration for her first piece was easy to come by, as she had learned to paint by painting angels. She created an angel cradling a broke heart in its hands, which currently is displayed at her workplace, 110 N. Main St.
“Angels are my favorite, and since this auction supports suicide prevention, I thought it was fitting for her to hold a broken heart,” Harpst said. “It took about four hours with breaks and I used acrylic paints and a good sealer. I also listened to the song, ‘It is Well with my Soul’ while painting most of it.
“My angel doesn’t have a title, but I left her faceless because she could be anyone of us.”
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“Cardinals symbolize that a loved one who has passed is visiting us,” the painter explained.
Other artists for the event include representatives from Indian Lake High School SADD and Art Club.
SADD Club members Madisyn Roach, Anela Hatfield, Nikita Scheifele and Katelyn Pippin created a mountain-themed window, and Art Club members, including Kayla Richards, designed a black and white themed window with a message of love.
Experts state that although suicide rates typically peak in the spring, the holidays are very difficult for family members, relatives or friends who have lost someone to suicide. The participating students hope their efforts can brighten this time of year for anyone who is struggling.
Harpst also wants to continue offering hope through her artwork and through the services supported by the Recovery Zone and Suicide Prevention Coalition.
“I will do this every year as long as it continues. I hope the community comes out to support this wonderful auction.”