Utilizing the media critical eye of video art, the community based objectives of public access television, and the personal orientation of the 1990s, Miller’s Grove Public Access explores personal experiences with mental illness to deconstruct stigma. By humanizing symptoms and providing a platform for healthy self expression, the on-going project aims to dispel harmful ideologies keeping individuals from getting the help they need and deserve.

The project's main initiative is to create a safe space for marginalized artists to produce personal and impactful work. Using older videography methods and re-used materials with a DIY sensibility, the project strives to be as accessible as possible. Eliminating the need for high quality visuals and intricate production values will allow artists to focus on their message while still creating work in a unique style.

Originally the endeavor of one artist, Miller’s Grove Public Access was pleased to announce it’s first ever call for submissions on 05/10/19. The project welcomes anyone who has struggled with their mental health at some point in their life or anyone with a mental illness to apply by July 15th, 2019. These submissions will be considered for one of two lineups during our September and October exhibition in the Green Gallery at Turnip Green Creative Reuse (Nashville, TN).

Our guidelines are simple: create a 2:30 – 5:00 minute piece of video art in the format of a public access show that highlights your experiences with your own mental health. It can be any aspect of these experiences such as your daily routine, a specific symptom, or how stigma has effected your life. These "shows" can fall under any genre, type, or style and artist's are not limited to any formal storytelling structure. We encourage all those who submit to be bold!

After our first exhibition, shows will be added to our Vimeo Channel as a way to continue curating the work and spread our message. The project will also begin taking submissions on a rolling basis.

What our grantee is saying: "Winning the Awesome Disability award is a huge step forward for Miller’s Grove Public Access. Not only will the award help the project financially in a huge way, but it also means it’s been recognized as an important voice in the fight to end mental health stigma. Knowing that others believe in this project and want to see it flourish is a true honor."