We welcome in our studios artists Lyn Horan, Amy Johnquest, and Izm Prizm (Orlando Santos). They are part of the art exhibit Side Effects 2, curated by Lyn Horan. In this conversation we learned about their inspiration to create the pieces that are part of this exhibit, made to create awareness, healing, and artistic expression.

The first exhibit of Side Effects, took place nine years ago at Paper City Studios and Gallery. In a clear need for accessible gallery spaces, this exhibit will be at the New England Visionary Artists Museum, in Northampton, from June 8 through 28.

An expensive failing healthcare system that favors CEO profit over healing, Big Pharma, the courage needed for recovery and/or trauma as addiction increases, lack of mental healthcare, a pandemic politicized, the largest generation aging, racism, our pre-occupation with eternal youth…all Side Effects of living in the 21st century.

11 visual artists have something to say about this conflict. And in the process, it’s clear that that art becomes the healer, the translator, and the connector for this dilemma.

Show: June 8, through June 28 at the New England Visionary Artists Museum, 518 Pleasant St. Northampton, MA. 413-588-4337 for museum hours. More information at neva-museum.org

Opening Reception: Friday, June 14, from 5:00 to 8:00 PM

Arts & Disability Panel Discussion on accessibility- Thursday, June 20 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM.

Poster Artist: Rob Kimmel.