Every one of us has a story. Tragically, however, for many individuals, reflecting on the past can evoke difficult emotions, drudging up the weight of past abuses and trauma. For those who have suffered through interpersonal and domestic violence, looking back on these experiences can be a complex endeavor riddled with pain, uncertainty, and anger. However, the path towards true peace can begin in the process of unpacking that difficult period. Join Artworks, in collaboration with Womenspace, the Trenton Community Street Team, and Salvation and Social Justice, for a profound day of creation at “Paint my Pain Away.”

On Saturday, May 27th, join Artworks Trenton for an afternoon of creativity, hope, and healing. This event will be held from 11:00 am to 1:30 pm at the Artworks headquarters at 19 Everett Alley, Trenton, NJ 08611. With the guidance of representatives from Womenspace, the Trenton Community Street Team, and Salvation and Social Justice, the afternoon will kick off with a guided discussion surrounding domestic violence awareness and helping others to heal in the face of significant trauma. Following this conversation, attendees will be guided through a painting activity in alignment with the day’s themes. If you are interested in attending, registration is available on the Artworks website: Paint the Pain Away – Register.

When recovering and building a life after abuse, the arts can be an incredible outlet to process one’s feelings and experiences. According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, when survivors of abuse suffer from conditions like Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, participation in the arts can help unlock and process those memories in a way that other self-care activities like journaling, speaking with friends, etc., would not. This is because the brain stores traumatic memories in the right-back region of the brain. This same brain region is then activated when participating in arts-based activities, which are known to incorporate all of your senses. Research suggests that through accessing the arts, survivors can process their emotions, enhance their mood, and lessen the impact of symptoms like depression. Healing can be found through creation, and this event is the perfect opportunity to begin recovery.

The host of the day’s events, Artworks, plays an integral role in the creative community in the Capital City. This organization continues to profoundly impact Trenton through world-class art exhibits, community events for the entire family, and incredible education events. Artworks help meet the creative where they are; whether you are a lifelong professional artist or just starting your artistic endeavors, there is always a space for you at Artworks’ impressive panel of events. If you’d like to read more about other upcoming educational opportunities in the Capital City, please visit their education calendar here: Education – Artworks.

If you have any questions before attending, please get in touch with Artworks at info@artworkstrenton.org for further details. Community and hope are here in Trenton, so do not miss this opportunity to take the first creative and crucial steps on your journey to healing.

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