SCI Therapeutic Art Program participants to exhibit Feb. 8 at Millsboro Art League

A reception featuring select works created by therapeutic art program participants at Sussex Correctional Institute will take place from 2 to 4 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 8 at Millsboro Art League, 203 Main St. in Millsboro. The exhibit will run through Feb. 28. Open to the public 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Fridays and Saturdays,  and 1 to 3 p.m., Sundays,  the MAL gallery is at 203 Main St. in Millsboro center.

“This really is a wonderful opportunity,” said program coordinator Nancy Thomas, who started overseeing the program four years ago. “The art league was very enthusiastic about the show, which goes along with their commitment to being community-based and community-focused.”

The art program, which has been in place at SCI for about 10 years, is viewed very positively by participants who see it as a way to maintain some structure and stability during their incarceration. “It keeps me on the right track and keeps me positive,” says William McKinney, who prefers to paint subjects that are peaceful and calm. “It gives you a little bit of hope.”

Although Thomas has some experience in art and teaching, the program is not instructional, and there is no prerequisite of artistic ability for participating. “I want them to do what they want in terms of creating art. They enjoy that, and I think that provides the best type of end result for a therapeutic program,” says Thomas.

For more information, visit www.millsboroartleague.com.