08/31/2026
Second Annual SRTA First Responder Art Exhibit Returns to El Paso
Stress Relief Through Arts (SRTA) will present its Second Annual First Responder Art Exhibit, The Weight We Carry, September 12 through October 4, 2026, at the International Museum of Art.
An opening reception will be held Saturday, September 19, from 2–4 p.m.
The annual exhibit brings together artwork created by current and retired first responders and their immediate family members, offering the community an opportunity to experience another side of those who serve—not through
uniforms or titles, but through what they create.
This year’s exhibit takes its name from the featured five-piece series, The Weight We Carry, created by retired first responder and SRTA founder Joanna Overton. The series depicts stages of responder stress and emphasizes the importance of caring for oneself as intentionally as one cares for others. The series is part of the El Paso Fire Department Wellness Center collection and will be on loan for the exhibition.
Through a variety of artists, experiences and creative styles, the exhibit reflects SRTA’s mission to encourage creativity as an accessible, non-clinical approach to stress relief, reflection and connection.
Exhibit: September 12 – October 4, 2026
Opening Reception: September 19, 2026 | 2–4 PM
The exhibit and opening reception are open to the community.
About SRTA
Stress Relief Through Arts is a creative wellness program developed with the first responder community in mind. Through hands-on creative experiences, community engagement and visual storytelling, SRTA encourages positive
approaches to stress relief, reflection and connection.
Joanna Overton
Founder, Stress Relief Through Arts Program