David Byrd: VOICES mission statement
David Byrd: VOICES works to preserve and promote the legacy of artist David Byrd. We organize events that provoke, challenge and explore perceptions of mental illness and art.
One in four adults live with a mental health condition, yet this common illness often remains hidden behind a wall of secrecy and isolation. David Byrd: VOICES works to engage individuals and communities by sharing David’s profound art and writings. We hope to break down societal stigmas and offer an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of mental illness.
Events
David Byrd: VOICES, A Multi-Media Performance Exploring the Life and Work of David Byrd
Morris Conference Center, SUNY Oneonta, NY, April 21, 2016
Event Video
Keynote Speaker Jessica Farrell
Veterans, Art and Mental Health Symposium
Edgewood College, Madison, WI, September 18, 2015
Short Clip of Keynote Speaker Walter Putrycz
Full Keynote Address by Walter Putrycz
Hope & Healing: Perspectives on Mental Illness 2
Guilford, NY, June 6, 2015
Hope & Healing: Perspectives on Mental Illness
Roxbury Arts Center, Roxbury, NY, January 31, 2015
Roxbury Arts Group, the National Alliance on Mental Illness chapters of Otsego County & Delaware County, NY Connects and the David Byrd Estate will partner for a community conversation about mental illness. Connect with mental health advocates for an in-depth, round table discussion! Keynote speaker Jason Paden will share his inspiring story of recovery – managing a major and chronic mental health condition. Together, let’s work to reduce the stigma of mental illness!
VOICES Press:
Franklin Register, Franklin, NY, “Voices to be heard”, Jessica Farrell, Spring 2016 PDF
Ananya Dance Theatre, ‘Violence, madness, breath’ in gallery movement meditation, Dec 10, 2015
Wisconsin Network for Peace and Justice, “War is Always with Us”, Aug 31, 2015
The Daily Star, Oneonta, NY “In Our Opinion: Mental health event shows need in area”, Jan 29, 2015
David Byrd: VOICES staff
Jessica Farrell and Jody Isaacson discovered and maintained a personal relationship with David Byrd. While working with him to catalogue his paintings, he shared his life history, his philosophy and the meaning of his work. Since his death, they have archived his paintings and drawings, transcribed his writings, curated exhibitions and organized conferences focused on mental health.
