Survivors

Last spring, I was asked by The Women's Center for Advancement to create a series of "Survivor" portraits for their new building in Omaha, Ne. My conceptual intent was to create overlapping individual portraits that when installed, connected in a way that referenced their journey. It was important to me to create portraits that were both authentic and beautiful. I wanted to pay tribute to their strength. Each woman shared their journey with me during the photo shoot. We spoke about sexual assault and domestic violence and also how the WCA helped them find hope. These portraits will be exhibited in a space that other women, in the midst of their journey, will see. They are meant to inspire hope for those in a dark place. The women's The WCA saves hundreds of lives each year. It is the go-to place for anyone experiencing domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking or stalking. Domestic violence and sexual assault affect 1 in 3 women. Domestic violence is the third leading cause of death for women, after cancer, and heart disease. The WCA never charges a client for their services. As a female artist living in Omaha, I could not think of a project more meaningful. It is opportunities like these that allow people to connect on a deeper level. During the photography, the women bonded and got to know one another. There was a mutual admiration and deep pride by the participants in knowing they would be faces to inspire others.