The Other Side: Survivorship Through Creating [ARTIST TALK]

"Survivorship" implies survival, but in the case of two female artists, it represents a shift from victimhood to empowerment achieved primarily through creating artistic products. Historically, popularized art which has been assigned the highest values and appreciation is more frequently designated to male artists; values are often based on technical aspects and the execution of media. This exhibition, however, focuses on the healing aspects of art, bringing light to the content and subject of domestic violence from a recovery standpoint. Through contrasting media and presentation, Felicia Reed (fiber) and Preference Evans (paint) document their journeys of healing in figurative rather than literal visual displays.

Felicia L. Reed, an internationally acclaimed Fiber Artist, has exhibited her work in numerous galleries and art forums. Her primary medium is Wet Felting, an ancient technique of hand agitation to create fabric primarily using silk and wool. In addition to being an artist, Ms. Reed is a Speaker, Certified Quality Management Professional, Coach, Volunteer, Advocate, and a survivor of extreme domestic and neighborhood violence. She currently resides in Maryland, USA, and her mission is to inspire healing through art, effect positive change in the world, and support other survivors. Ms. Reed primarily exhibits in the Washington, DC area and throughout the United States, having completed several solo exhibits and preparing for additional solo events. She has received numerous art awards and is a Gold Awardee in the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum's Annual Juried Exhibit. Felicia L. Reed is available for speaking and artistic opportunities. www.fiberartwithfelicia.art

Preference L. Evans is an artist and educator who helps adults manage stress through guided art activities. My background is in art, art education, and digital teaching and learning. Have you ever met an artist who rarely makes art? That would be me. Ironically, I was born into a family of artists who created regularly, yet most of my art was created while I was in distress. I never wanted to be a "pretty" artist; I wanted to be a meaningful artist. However, I never anticipated that one of my worst romantic relationships would become the catalyst for my largest and most meaningful body of work, my first and only painting series. My healing series (as I like to call it) features images from everyday life and nature. I used those objects as symbols to represent aspects of isolated and recurring experiences that stood out to me most during the relationship. The relationship was very tumultuous and draining. However, I chose to use bright colors in contrast. My color choices represent me but also the facade of an abusive relationship. I intentionally created images that told my story in a way that felt safe to me but also in a way that left a lot to imagine, even miss. www.artbyp.com

Host or Publisher Honfleur Gallery