WALK UNAFRAID

The blatant disregard for basic human rights by individuals and private interest groups is certainly nothing new. However, the costs seem to be rising, citizens around the world are suffering and our leaders seem to be asleep at the wheel.

Through installations, graphic works, artist books and painting, I have devoted much of my career to raising awareness about environmental and corporate abuse as well as breaking the silence around domestic violence, sexual assault, incest and bullying.

My recent Walk Unafraid public art installations, resembling crime scenes, are collaborative projects in which I engage members of a given community to take part in the actual creation of the work. Participants share their personal and collective experiences through the Walk Unafraid installation. These collaborations have engaged students, battered women, homeless teens, artists and activists.

By partnering with organizations such as V-Day, United Way, and a number of social service organizations, I’ve had the opportunity to present several audience-participatory healing projects involving hundreds of collaborators.  The Walk Unafraid installations also serve as effective educational tools for helping individuals to recognize and prevent physical, sexual and emotional abuse. Giving voice to the voiceless – the survivors of violence, their families, and those who’s voices have been silenced forever – has had a cathartic and healing effect for both participants and communities.

It is a privilege for which I am grateful, to participate in the process of creating healing, empowerment and awareness with community members around the world.

Gabrielle Senza
January   |   2010  |   Berkshires