JOPLIN, Mo. – A free art show, showcasing the lived experiences of local individuals struggling with eating disorders and body image issues, will shed understanding on these subjects that, even in 2023, continue to be stigmatized and misunderstood.

Opening at 5:30 pm Thursday, June 29, Ozark Center Innovative Solutions’ themed art show, “Reflections of Hunger: Disordered Eating and Body Image Through Their Eyes,” will be on display in July at the Joplin Public Library, ending Monday, July 31. Last year’s art show, the first ever, was a single-night event.

While most American recognize anorexia, bulimia or binge eating as eating disorders, few truly understand how harmful these eating patterns can be, or how difficult it is for sufferers to describe them to friends and loved ones. By utilizing the age-old idiom – “a picture is worth a thousand words” – “Reflection of Hunger” artists hope to educate and enlighten the public through painting and sculpture.

“Eating disorders impact our community more than any of us realize, and this speaks to people far better than listening to a lecture,” said Dr. Jenny Copeland, a licensed psychologist and director of Reconnect Eating Disorders Clinic at Ozark Center Hope Spring. “I think it’s important for the artists to tell their stories in their own way. I think there is a lot of power in that.”

Joplin-area residents – including clients served by Ozark Center or the Reconnect program – are encouraged to submit artwork – media can include paintings, photography, sketches, sculptures, clay designs, creative art projects, and writing. All entries must be submitted to Ozark Center Hope Spring, 3901 E. 32nd Street, by Friday, June 16. Guidelines and entry forms can be found at ozarkcenter.com/ROHentry.

“Last year we walked around and listened to people viewing the art show and the responses were both visceral and emotional; they kept talking about how powerful it was,” Dr. Copeland said. “It was a really powerful response, and we’re excited for the opportunity to do this again.”

Opening night will include a body positive photo booth and light hors d’oeuvres. For more information, please call 417.347.7500.