Thursday, October 16, 2025 at the Goei Center
818. Buttworth St. SW., Grand Rapids, MI
Doors Open 5:30 p.m.
Silent and Dutch Auction Close 7:30 p.m.
Program 7:30 p.m. honoring the 2025 recipients of the Elizabeth Sarafis Live Laugh Love & Michael Greiner Resilience Awards
Live Auction to follow
A juried art show and auction benefiting the MHF and its flagship program, be nice.
At be nice., we believe in the power of education, action, and compassion to lift people up—even in their heaviest moments. This year's Shining Through theme, Defying Gravity, mirrors our mission: empowering individuals to rise above stigma, challenge mental health struggles, and create lasting change in themselves and their communities. Together, we’re proving that with support and understanding, nothing has to hold us down.
Shining Through is an art show and auction that highlights the creative talents of local artists who are living with severe and persistent mental illness. By attending Shining Through and purchasing artwork from our featured artists, you are directly supporting both the artists and our mission. Each piece sold provides 51% back to the artist and 49% to the be nice., while donated auction items raise vital funds for be nice. and other mental health education programs.
2025 Theme Piece
"Controlled Chaos" by Brian Allen
In Brian's own words, "For over a decade, painting has been one of my ways of navigating the world — not just as an artist, but as a human being constantly evolving. Once beautiful truth I've discovered through this journey is that painting gives me the power and freedom to shape my own reality. To add light where there was darkness, to subtract limits where there was fear and doubt.
The theme defying gravity resonates with me, because liberation, freedom and divine defiance aren't just ideas — they are acts of creation. Each brushstroke becomes a quiet rebellion, a moment of rising above what tries to hold me down. Through my work, I honor the strength it takes to overcome, to transcend and to live freely in truth and color.
Suggested Attire
Wondering What to Wear?
One of the most common questions we get is about attire! For this event, snappy casual is the way to go. Think: stylish but relaxed—dressier than jeans and a tee, but not as formal as a suit and tie. Add a little edge or personality to your look, and you’ll fit right in.
Special Thanks to
Our 2025 Sponsors
van Gogh Platinum Sponsor
Michelangelo Gold Sponsor
O’Keeffe Silver Sponsor