'The Complete Picture' Features Art from a Unique Source

The Complete Picture, an exhibit of artwork by young people in the state's juvenile justice system, will be on view at The Grove, 760 Chapel St., weekdays through June 14.

A reception for the artists will be held on Wednesday, May 29, from 5:30 to 7 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. Break dancers from the Passages program will provide entertainment.

The Connecticut Juvenile Justice Alliance sponsors the annual art show to give voice to kids who rarely get to share their stories. "The featured artwork shows the struggles these young people have faced. Just as eloquently, it shows their potential," said Alliance Executive Director Abby Anderson.

The Alliance works to prevent children from entering the juvenile justice system and advocates for a safe, fair and effective system for those children who do. "Organizing these exhibits, we've heard from kids who say that art became a way for them to manage anger or depression," said Anderson. "It's a simple but powerful illustration of how we can help kids make better choices by giving them the right supports."

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