Artreach, Inc. will host a virtual book launch to celebrate the publication of “Creativity Heals: Art and Poetry from Artreach (Volume 1)” from 4 to 5 p.m. Thursday.

The online event will include some background on the project, readings by guests of selections from the chapbook, and information on how copies made be obtained. The event is free, but those wishing to attend must register in order to receive information about how to log into the event. More information and registration can be found at www.bit.ly/ArtreachBookLaunch.

Before the pandemic hit, Artreach had begun work on a publication including poetry from the past decade, illustrated with artwork from fall 2019 workshops. This project was able to come to fruition while people were working remotely during the pandemic. Through a collaboration with Aly Maderson Quinlog and Magik Press of New London, a limited number of full-color editions have been printed and are ready for the public to see the poetry and artwork, which are reflections on well-being and nature, among other topics.

On Thursday, Artreach will virtually celebrate its literary and visual artists. During the event, Executive Director Becca Atkins will share how the book was developed. Attendees will also hear about the Artreach arts programs led by Faith Satterfield, and how to obtain copies of the book. There will also be readings of a few selections of the volume's poetry, read by guest local literary celebrities, and samplings of the artwork will be shown.

Proceeds from book sales benefit Artreach, Inc., a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization whose mission is to provide arts programs to adults who have experienced mental illness and to raise awareness about mental health.