Don't Miss This: Art+Science Raises Money for Mental Illness at Art & Soul

Art + Science salon in Chicago has partnered with Hair Cares NFP to present Art & Soul, a music-, fashion- and hair-centric event benefiting the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Chicago. Art & Soul is Nov. 11 at the Ravenswood Event Center

This will be the third year Art + Science produces Art & Soul for a selected charity. This year's charity of choice, NAMI, raises awareness and provides support and education to those affected by mental illness. The Art + Science team hopes to raise $25,000 for NAMI Chicago at the event.

"It takes a village to put Art & Soul together, but this year's event feels more like a partnership with NAMI," says Paul Wilson, co-owner and creative director for Art + Science salons. "It's expanded our view of what's possible."

The event is strategically held on Veteran's Day—a particularly important time to be supportive and mindful of mental illness.

"With this year's event coinciding with a day to celebrate veterans' service, it is a time to be mindful of those living with mental illness and offer support to those who need it," says Alexa H. James, executive director of NAMI Chicago. "I look forward to partnering with Art & Soul to bring mental health awareness and NAMI's work to the forefront of the best party of the year."

Because music serves as a great source of inspiration in Art + Science's salon culture, the event will pay homage to iconic music artists and cultures including Elvis, 1960s motown, David Bowie and more during a runway show.

Headlining the show will be Cults, an indie band that has a Lollapalooza performance under its belt. Special 20s and DJ Intel will also perform during the event.

"Cults is a phenomenal indie band and one of my favorite acts at Lollapalooza a few years ago," Wilson says. "Sonically and lyrically, they bring the perfect vibe to Art & Soul."

Collaborating with Revlon Professional and American Crew, Art + Science hopes to elevate Art & Soul and bring more exposure to NAMI.

“Mental health issues directly or indirectly impact so many of our stylists, clients, their family members and loved ones," Wilson says. “We want to help bring awareness to the importance of mental health and eliminate the stigmas that exist.”

In previous years, Art + Science has raised $12,000 for the National Association for Down Syndrome (2012) and more than $17,000 for Cystic Fibrosis Research (2013).

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit artandsoulchicago.eventbrite.com.