By Heather Madsen, CTW Features
There are a lot of big, extravagant, and exciting events going on in Utah this summer. From rodeos and headliner concerts to art and food festivals, our community comes together in dozens of ways to celebrate and entertain ourselves. These big events couldn’t happen without big sponsors and big talent and it’s an excellent way for more established businesses to promote themselves, while also supporting a venue where smaller companies and artists can get important visibility. However, not every great event has a big name backing them. Some events are smaller and built by a few dedicated people within the community, and those events deserve to be supported and attended just as much.
One of those events is the Art for the Recovery Community festival. This event is an annual art show that features paintings, poetry, music, photography, and more from people who are in recovery from substance use and addiction. ARC was founded by people who wanted to create a space where recovery could be supported and celebrated, but also where they could open up space to the community to provide connection and spark discussion. Addiction and substance use disorders are typically seen in a negative and taboo light, and this festival is a way to circumvent preconceived notions through the power and emotion of art. All are welcome to attend and experience the joy, healing, and connection that artists and their work provide.
This year ARC will be held on July 22nd, at the Sugar Space Arts Warehouse in Salt Lake City. The gallery opens at 6 pm and will continue until 10 pm. Light refreshments will be provided, and there will also be an evening concert at 7 pm, as well as a raffle for some of the art pieces. All proceeds will go to a recovery-focused non-profit. This event is free and open to the public and we sincerely hope you’ll join us for a beautiful night of artistic expression.