LERVILLE. Next week, artist Anne Bracksen will open her much-talked-about exhibition MERIT at Lerville Art Hall. Through colorful works, personal stories, and a bold look at life’s shadows, she aims to create a space for dialogue about mental health.

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The exhibition, which has previously been shown in both San Jose and Sacramento, has been praised for its way of blending visual art with everyday experiences of anxiety, hope, and recovery.

“I want people to recognize themselves—and to feel that they are not alone,” says Bracksen.

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MERIT consists of paintings, textile installations, and short film sequences. Together, they form a narrative about what it is like to live with mental ill health, but also about the strength and creativity that can grow out of difficult experiences.

“For me, art is a language when words are not enough. It’s a way to share something deeply personal while also breaking the silence surrounding mental health,” Bracksen explains.

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Lerville Art Hall aims to elevate the exhibition beyond a traditional showing. The opening night will feature a panel discussion with local representatives from healthcare services and community organizations. The evening will conclude with acoustic music, underscoring the theme of togetherness.

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Art Hall director Karin Olsson is looking forward to opening the doors:

“We believe MERIT can become an important meeting place here in Lerville. Many people carry their own experiences, or those of loved ones, and art can offer strength when words sometimes fall short.”

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• MERIT will be on display at the Lerville Art Hall from March 1-31.

• Opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 11am-5pm

• Free admission.