Are you Really Winning?: Public Art Competition for Problem Gambling Awareness

2023 Art Competition

First Place

Artist: Sara Peak Convery – Chicago

Her captivating artwork combines digital and hybrid elements, blending letters in a digital format with a backdrop created using house paint on a board.

Sara’s use of addiction’s language resonates deeply, skillfully portraying its complexities through bravado, bargaining, fear, denial, and desperation. Although not personally experiencing an overt addiction, Sara believes these words and emotions are familiar to most individuals.

Second Place

Artist: Marissa Bogdansky – Carbondale

“Dinner,” delivers a poignant message about the destructive impact of parents’ gambling on families. This thought-provoking photograph is part of a series that serves as a powerful reminder of the challenges faced by those affected. Marissa’s artwork calls upon us to join forces in the battle against gambling and to maintain a deep sense of empathy for the vulnerable individuals affected by its consequences. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Marissa for her thought-provoking image and offer our congratulations on this well-deserved recognition.

Third Place

Artist: Susan Strange – Northbrook

Problem Gambling: Text for Help and Hope.

Her piece brings attention to the importance of hope and seeking help in overcoming problem gambling. Susan’s intention is to portray the struggles and conflicts associated with problem gambling without any stigmatization or assumptions about the individuals involved. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified Supervisor Alcohol and other Drug Counselor, Susan aims to inspire viewers to perceive problem gambling as a challenge rather than a stigma, encouraging them to have hope and seek assistance.