women who have experienced intimate partner violence (IPV) or domestic diolence (DV) joined together for a photoshoot designed to showcase them in a new and empowering light. prior to the photoshoot, these women participated in a healing circle where they shared their experiences and provided mutual support and understanding in an intimate setting.

the photoshoot itself became a celebration of resilience and empowerment, with gonzalez collaborating closely with each participant to capture images that highlighted the strength and beauty inherent in their individual stories.

following the photoshoot, the participants were treated to a restorative sound bath facilitated by @root2riseyoga, offering a thoughtful and therapeutic conclusion to the event. this segment provided a space for reflection, relaxation, and healing, complementing the empowering atmosphere created by the healing circle and the photoshoot. along with donated hair/make-up services + tarot reading with @daturadivinity. the combination of these elements resulted in a holistic and empowering experience.

in commemoration of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, the Violence Project, in collaboration with Monica Salazar and Community Loving, hosted a poetry workshop at Village Well. This event was designed to revolve around themes of healing and self-love, providing a safe and supportive space for participants.

under the guidance of Monica Salazar (@typawaypoetry), a skilled facilitator in the realm of healing through art, participants explored the transformative power of poetry as a means of self-expression and catharsis. alongside, @communityloving brought free basic essentials to everyone.

the workshop allowed individuals to come together to raise awareness, express themselves through poetry, and contribute to the broader conversation surrounding sexual assault.

Violence Project hosted "art in the park" with donations from blue rooster and @cache_intune, provided a unique and accessible space for the community to come together and engage in conversations surrounding sexual violence. The use of art as a medium allowed for a creative and expressive exploration of the topic, enabling participants to convey their thoughts and feelings in a visually impactful way.

in collaboration with Gorl Friday, the Violence Project hosted an event named "Funk the Violence" at bolita bar. the purpose of this gathering was to raise funds and awareness surrounding violence against women, with the proceeds going towards supporting the Violence Project's future art gallery and Gorl Friday’s projects.

central to the event was the theme of using funky music as a medium to draw attention to the cause. the choice of music was in dedication to the women in gonzalez’s life who loves funk.

the fundraising event at bolita bar was a fusion of entertainment and advocacy, combining the elements of music, raffles, and curated cocktails to support the mission. it not only raised funds but also created an enjoyable and memorable experience for participants while contributing to the ongoing efforts to address and raise awareness about violence against women.

Violence Project plans to host an art gallery to culminate the project, and showcase the pieces alongside contributions from other women in the community, all centered around the theme of addressing violence against women. This collaborative exhibition seeks to raise awareness about the complexities of violence and highlight the profound beauty that emerges through the process of healing with art.

if you're interested in participating or supporting the gallery, please reach out via email at violenceagainstwomen23@gmail.com