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What is Words Are Hard :

Green Phoenix's annual free event is now an art-filled journey inspired by a 2021 photo essay on mental health. This year features an Art Gallery Experience, Performance & Speaker Sessions (themed 'ID Stolen,' 'Fighting the Darkness,' 'Spark of Hope'), and a chance to create art for a community gallery. 

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Share your voice in our Open Mic & Community Stories session, highlighting the power of creative expression in mental well-being. All are welcome! Join us and explore past event reflections below. 

Art Gallery Experience

Words Are Hard will feature a unique gallery exhibit of visual art alongside a program of diverse performances. This year's event emphasizes art as a medium for healing and self-expression, creating accessible and engaging conversations around mental well-being. Attendees will have the opportunity to create their own art, contributing to a community gallery space that promotes self-expression and healing. Explore artwork that powerfully expresses themes of mental health, resilience, and personal journeys, showcasing that not all communication is verbal or straightforward.

Performance & Speaker Sessions

The event program will also feature diverse performances and engaging speaker sessions. The performances and speaker sessions are organized into three thematic segments, aligning with the 'Words Are Hard' photo essay:

  • Identity Stolen: Exploring identity, self-worth, and the struggles of mental health.

  • Fighting the Darkness: Addressing the battles of depression, anxiety, and overcoming hardships.

  • Spark of Hope: Stories of resilience, healing, and moving forward.

Open Mic & Community Stories

A dedicated open mic session will allow attendees to share their personal experiences, poetry, songs, or reflections. The goal is to highlight mental health beyond clinical diagnoses, showing how creative expression can be a form of self-care and storytelling. We encourage you to take the stage and share your voice in a supportive and welcoming environment. Performances during the open mic will be limited to a maximum of 5 minutes per performer.

Words Are Hard: A Look Back

Since its inception, the Words Are Hard event has recognized the power of art to communicate and heal, featuring a dedicated gallery space for visual expression.  In previous years, the art gallery was complemented by round table discussions, fostering dialogue and community engagement.  While the format of the event has evolved, the art gallery remains a central element, providing a platform for artists to share their perspectives on mental health. This year, we are excited to expand the artistic experience by incorporating performance and speaker sessions alongside the gallery, creating a richer and more engaging event for all.

Here's a glimpse back to May 4, 2022... where it all began:

Overcoming stigma: Words Are Hard  2023 and the power of connection. 

Words Are Hard 2024: Ending the stigma, starting the conversation.

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