ARTWORK created by sexual abuse survivors is set to go on display at Coventry’s Artspace Arcadia Gallery between 10am and 2pm from Monday until next Friday, March 7 to 11.
Coventry Rape and Sexual Abuse Centre (CRASAC) is hosting the exhibition to mark 40 years of supporting victims and survivors of sexual violence across the city.
Citizen Housing is funding the exhibition through the its local fund, set up to help people in local communities with groups or schemes which promote mental or physical wellbeing.
A group of survivors have taken part in workshops delivered by Arty Folks – a charity that runs art for wellbeing classes.
Their artwork showcases their voices and will focus on their journey to recovery.
One of the survivors who took part in the workshops said it really helped her wellbeing.
“These workshops have been really important to me.
“It’s the first time my mind has been able to focus on something else and I’ve had the opportunity to publicly express myself in my own personal way.”
She added she valued being part of a group where everyone had a relatable experience.
“It has been an opportunity to let go of my anxiety and have fun.”
Martyn Hale, Citizen’s director of care and support, said: “To support an exhibition like this means in a small way we are making a difference and supporting those who have a hidden story to tell it through expression.
“Anything that a person can use to tell their story, be it art, writing or poetry is to be celebrated. Often the telling of a person’s story is part of their recovery and coming to terms with what happened to them.”
CRASAC is a registered charity and rape crisis centre which provides specialist counselling, advocacy, and emotional support services to all those who have been affected by rape or sexual violence at any time in their lives
CRASAC’s Chief Executive Natalie Thompson added: “Through a series of art workshops and individual contributions we have enabled a group of survivors to find their voice and validate their experiences.
“The exhibition will represent a snapshot of the hopes, frustrations, and determination experienced by the hundreds of victims and survivors we support every year.”
Visit crasac.org.uk/fortieth-anniversary-survivors-art-exhibition/ for more on the exhibition and crasac.org.uk for more on the charity.
