Model Patient: Selected stained glass works by Christine Merrick

Jun 15, 2009

Fresh A.I.R.Gallery

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: Myken Lint,
June 15, 2009 Public Affairs Coordinator
614.225.0985 ext. 1206 or lintm@southeastinc.com

Model Patient
Selected stained glass works by Christine Merrick
*Digital images available upon request*

Fresh A.I.R. (Artists in Recovery) Gallery presents Model Patient by artist Christine Merrick opening on Wednesday June 24, 2009 and continuing through August 14, 2009.

Please join us for the artist’s opening reception Wednesday, June 24, 2009 5:30-7:00 p.m. at Fresh A.I.R. Gallery - free and open to the public. Fresh A.I.R. Gallery is located at 131 N. High St. Columbus, Ohio 43215. 614.741.8110. Gallery hours are Monday – Friday 8:00 am – 5:30 pm.

Christine Merrick

Christine Merrick uses glass and steel to explore the strength and fragility of life through the mediums of sculpture and stained glass. She was born and raised in Savannah, GA and where she was encouraged to participate in art and theater. She left home at a young age and lived many diverse places across the country. She enjoys working with her hands and draws inspiration from nature.

Christine was diagnosed with Schizophrenia in her early 20’s and says she spent many years letting the insecurities and emotional strain of being labeled “insane” control her life. Now in her thirties, she has acknowledged and overcome her fears of being viewed as broken and has used art, and the act of creating, to put the pieces together. Her work explores relationships, both alone and together.

Merrick says ‘Model Patient’ expresses the lack of understanding and communication between doctors and their patients. The pieces in this series represent both the mind\'s strength and vulnerability in the doctor/patient relationship.

Christine Merrick

Christine Merrick currently resides in Western North Carolina where she regularly shows her work. Please visit her website at www.artglassbychristinemerrick.com

Fresh A.I.R. Gallery’s mission is to exhibit the works of individuals affected by mental illness and/or substance abuse disorders. Through art, we educate the community and work to break down the stigma of mental illness by bringing focus to the artistic vision. Fresh A.I.R. Gallery is operated by Southeast Inc. Southeast Inc. is a comprehensive provider of mental health, chemical dependency, physical healthcare and homeless services that has been serving Columbus and five surrounding counties since 1978. Telephone number is (614) 225-0980 or Fax (614) 225-0986 or visit http://www.southeastinc.com/fresh_air.php.