She Lives
A MIXED MEDIA PUBLIC ART PROJECT
“She Lives” will empower women who’ve experienced trauma to connect to their community, each other, and themselves through the creation of art. Up to 20 women from all backgrounds will participate in a mixed media portrait workshop, creating a piece of art that shares their unique story of domestic violence or sexual assault. An exhibition of all works is planned for International Women's Day, March 8, 2021.
​
This project is supported by the Bush Foundation; National Arts Strategies; The Women's Fund through the Community Foundation of Grand Forks, East Grand Forks, and Region; and the Public Arts Commission.
Connect with Others
Each woman will participate in a photoshoot with local photographer Erin Phillips of Soulshine Photography, who will capture a portrait to be used in the artwork. (Please note, if there are safety concerns, participants can choose to create an art piece without using your personal image.) Participants will also be provided with a framed copy of this portrait, a daily reminder they are strong and powerful. Each workshop will begin with a reflection session on mindfulness and awareness of breath led by Joy Hillukka of Krystal Lotus Massage and Wellness.
Connect with self
Women will go through the workshop as a cohort, with each cohort having up to 5 people. They will meet others who have experienced similar trauma. The women will spend nine hours with mixed media artist, Becca Cruger, to create a self-portrait mixed media work designed to empower, uplift, and challenge both the creator and the viewer.
Connect with community
Participants will display their creations at a public art gallery in partnership with the Public Arts Commission and will have the opportunity to share about supportive resources within the greater Grand Forks community.
every Person has a right to live Their life safely and free of violence.
Are you experiencing violence? Need help?
Domestic violence and sexual assault happen to people across all races, religions, cultures, socio-economic statuses, education levels, and genders.
​
If you are experiencing violence and located in the Grand Forks region, visit cviconline.org for a list of resources.
Phone: 701.746.0405
Crisis Line: 701.746.8900
​
If you are located outside of the Grand Forks region, call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1.800.799.SAFE (7233)
