Art With Heart is an annual art auction held in February each year benefiting Safe Alliance (previously known as United Family Services) domestic violence programs. What began in 1999 as a group of local women combining their resources to plan a fun benefit to raise money to help United Family Services, has since turned into an annual event that has raised more than $1,000,000 for domestic violence programs through ticket sales, corporate sponsorships, a raffle, and the sell of auction items. With participation by some of the region’s top artists, Art With Heart has become one of the biggest art events in Charlotte. Source: Art With Heart Facebook Page
I chose to participate in Art With Heart because I believe in Safe Alliance’s mission and I personally used their services when I was in my twenties. I had never talked about my own sexual trauma to anyone. After finally breaking my silence and confiding in a friend, she recommended I talk to someone at Safe Alliance.
Even though I had little money at the time, I was able to see a counselor because of their sliding scale fees.
Over time the flashbacks became less scary, my panic attacks subsided, and I was able to be intimate with my partner again. Today, I am able to share my story with other survivors and listen to their experiences and not become triggered. I am forever grateful for the help Safe Alliance provided.
Here are a few shots of the fiber pieces I donated to the Auction.
I donated two pieces: “Ethereal Transformazione” and “Speranza Rising.”
“Ethereal Transformazione” is a piece that breathes new life into discarded, disposable fibers. It embodies the transformative push brought on by adversity and the beauty that can come from humble, resourceful means.
“Speranza Rising” was created by taking every day fibers such as paper towels, napkins, and scrap threads, this piece represents the women who inspire me. The ones who lean into life‘s challenges and dare to hope and push for a better life.
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