An upcoming art exhibit in Vernon will showcase the works of women who have survived domestic and sexual violence.
Archway Society for Domestic Peace is hosting its first ever art exhibit from March 5-14 at the Caetani Centre on Pleasant Valley Road.
The exhibit, called Creatrix Rising, was created because women with lived experience were asking for artistic opportunities to help them process past trauma, and a group of Archway volunteers were inspired to meet the need.
Archway says the women whose works will be featured were in the process of healing from abuse, adding they were able to explore their story through art and creative expression.
The project began with a series of workshops provided by volunteer artist mentors beginning in September, where the women could learn, heal and create art to be shown at the exhibit if they chose to have it displayed. The workshops made use of clay, molding, acrylic, poetry, water colour, voice expression and other mediums.
“Programs like this are not possible without the generous support of our funders, workshop partners, art mentors, volunteer committee members, exhibit sponsors and other volunteers,” Archway said in a press release. “This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate these artists and the incredible work they have completed.”
There will be a special opening night celebration on Friday, March 8 (RSVP closed), coinciding with International Women’s Day.
“The opportunity to participate in Creatrix Rising has helped me in opening the door to the depth of creativity living inside of me. It has allowed me a much greater witnessing in myself, the surprise at how much more I have to offer than I ever realized … this also translates to my life on all levels,” said one Creatrix Rising participant. “What a beautiful journey it has spurred forward in me. Thank-you so much to all who made it possible!”
According to The Women’s Resource Centre, engaging in an artistic practice can be a way for survivors to make sense of, and find their way out of, chaos, terrifying memories and the raw emotion associated with their abuse, allowing them to discover a sense of grounding, strength, safety, understanding and hope.
For exhibit availability, visit https://archwaysociety.ca/creatrix-rising-rsvp/.
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