Montgomery, Ala. – In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, Montgomery Regional Airport (MGM) is proud to partner with the Alabama Department of Mental Health (ADMH) to host the 20th Annual Capitol Showcase: Art Exhibits by Individuals with Lived Experience.
This year marks the first time the powerful, statewide exhibit will be expanded beyond the State Capitol. To commemorate the showcase’s 20th anniversary, ADMH is displaying artwork across three public venues:
The Old Supreme Court Library at the Alabama State Capitol
Montgomery Regional Airport (MGM)
The Bryce Hospital Museum, located in the Randall Welcome Center at the University of Alabama
The exhibit will be on display throughout the month of May, inviting travelers, visitors, and residents to experience the transformative power of art created by individuals living with mental illnesses, substance use disorders, developmental disabilities, and co-occurring conditions.
“Montgomery Regional Airport is honored to help raise awareness about the importance of mental health by offering a space that connects travelers with the stories, creativity, and strength of these artists,” said Brittney Jones-Dabney, Marketing and Communications Manager at MGM. “Airports are hubs for human connection, and we’re proud to play a part in showcasing this meaningful work.”
Since its launch in 2005, the Capitol Showcase has provided a platform for self-expression and recovery through visual storytelling. Each piece in the exhibit tells a unique and courageous story of healing and hope, helping to reduce stigma and spark dialogue about mental health in communities across Alabama.
The 2025 Capitol Showcase features a variety of artistic mediums and styles. Visitors are encouraged to view the exhibit and vote for their favorite pieces as part of the Best in Show public vote. For exhibit updates and information on how to vote for Best in Show, please visit www.mh.alabama.gov.
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05-05-2025 ADMH Spotlights May as Mental Health Awareness Month
Renée Ultes Hines – HOPE Prevails
Hi, I’m Renée, and I’m in long-term recovery from substance use disorder. I’ve also faced depression over the years. One of my greatest passions is photography. I took this photo in my apartment, capturing the stages of a tulip blooming. By the time I snapped the picture, the flower had dried up and was nearly dead, but its vibrant color remained.
This moment became a metaphor for my journey—through addiction and depression, I’ve held onto hope.
Romans 15:13 – “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
Mark Hembd – Lavender Garden
I’m Mark, and I’m 56 years old. I love drawing and creating images the way I see them. I share many adventures with my twin brother, Mike, and we live in the Rainbow Omega community. I was born with Down syndrome and have overcome many challenges. Art helps me express myself when words don’t come easily.
I especially love using marking pens for their bright colors. My friends call me “Picasso.” I sketch fast with pencil, color in bold, and finish with black outlines. Many of my drawings have been made into note cards. I created Lavender Garden for my mom—lavender flowers are her favorite.