By Kimberly Burk For The OklahomanNORMAN — An exhibit by Edmond artist and educator Mongo Allen will open Oct. 25 at the Whispering Willows Gallery, 226 E Main St. Allen's collection of acrylic black and white paintings is called “Stepping into the Light.” “It was motivated by my years of working with families who are dealing with mental illness and substance abuse,” said Allen, who is founder and president of the nonprofit Five Smooth Stones Foundation, which provides educational and life skills resources to struggling families. “In many cases, the caregivers who are providing help to the family members become traumatized by their experiences.