The use of art as a means to effect behavioral change was demonstrated by an art exhibit sponsored by the Prevention of High Risk Drinking Among College Students Program. The exhibit held at McDaniel College in Westminster, Maryland and featured works by McDaniel College art students that were created to depict students' impressions of alcohol abuse.

Grogan Ullah, the project director, explains that "most people think of art simply as a means of personal expression. However, art can also be used as a powerful vehicle to promote social change. Art can shake up and challenge your beliefs, perceptions and hopefully impact your behavior."

Joe by Tara Russell

The Center for Human Services organized the event, with support from McDaniel College Professor Steven Pearson, to raise awareness about the risks of  underage drinking. Twenty-three entries from 22 students were displayed for faculty and students to view. Judges drawn from the McDaniel faculty, the Carroll County Arts Council, and the student body voted to select a first, second, and third prize winner. In addition, over 200 students cast votes to select a People’s Choice submission. 

The project is funded by the U.S. Department of Education/Office of Safe and Drug Free Schools. For more information on the use of art for social change contact Grogan Ullah at gullah@urc-chs.com.