The 20th Annual John J. Benoit Behavioral Health Arts Festival is set to take place on May 13, 2025, at the Taj Mahal Building in Riverside County Fairgrounds, Indio, California. This free community event aims to support local artists living with mental health diagnoses by showcasing their writing and art. The festival will feature paintings, drawings, jewelry, and more as part of the celebration of Mental Health Month.
The event will run from 11 AM to 2 PM, with an awards ceremony scheduled for 12:30 PM. Awards include a grand prize of $100, first place receiving $75, second place $50, and third place $25. To receive contest awards, winners or their designated representatives must be present at the ceremony.
Hosted by the Riverside County Desert Behavioral Health Board, the festival has specific rules for exhibitors and contestants. Artists are required to submit up to five pieces of artwork to Mary Carpio or Denise Morgan at the Indio Oasis Adult or Children’s Clinic between May 5 and May 7 during business hours. All submissions must include an Artwork Registration Form available at various locations including the Peer Center and Windy Springs.
Authors interested in participating in the creative writing contest must submit their entries by May 1 via email or in person at the Indio Oasis Clinic. Each entry should include a title, contact information, publication consent if applicable, and details about award collection if not attending.
For further inquiries regarding participation or submission guidelines, Mary Carpio can be contacted at 760-863-8586.
