Abu Dhabi: The capital is hosting a unique art exhibition in which each artwork tells a real life story – the story of fear and hope of women who have been victims of human trafficking.
The exhibition titled Silent Voices showcases artistic creations by these women who are rebuilding their lives at the EWA’A’s Shelter for Women.
For instance, a portrait of a lion titled ‘Prince or Predator’ by a 27-year-old Asian, signed with initials S.K., sums up her life story with the caption: “He was eager to gain from my weakness.”
Presented in four categories – Life lessons, Friends and Foes, Faces of Reality, and Home and Hope, the paintings tell heart-wrenching stories of women who were misled, cheated, abused and tortured by people they trusted.
J.D., 21, Asia has drawn the portrait of ‘My Trafficker’ - well-dressed but touting a kalashnikov - aptly captioning it “Looks can be deceiving”.
The works, which include nine self-portraits of the artists in pencil sketches and other collaborative works, are inspired by their true-life experiences.
While paintings like Seeds of Hope, Hearts of Hope, Waves of Survival and The Face of Fortune exude faith and hope, some have captured the artists’ yearnings to be with their families and kids.
Maitha Al Mazruoi, Develop-ment coordinator and manager at the EWA’As Shelter for Women, said the art exhibition conducted in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation, is part of a healing and rehabilitation process of human trafficking survivors.
“Most of these women were sexually abused and this exhibition is a way of convincing them that they are worth more than just their bodies. The appreciation and recognition mean a lot in rebuilding their self-respect and confidence,” said Maitha.
“Art gives them something to focus on and distract them from unpleasant memories. It also helps them express themselves and rebuild their connect with the world outside,” said Jen Simon, an artist who conducted art workshops and helped the women at the shelter put together the exhibition over a period of three months.
Babs Klinj, a charity worker and founder of ‘Few Great Helpings’ based in Abu Dhabi, said the works are simply inspiring.
“These women have gone through a lot and still strive to achieve. When you are feeling a little down, all you have to do is have a look at these pictures,” said Klinj. She said she bought an artwork titled Journey of Life by Asian M.N., 33.
The exhibition ends at the Ghaf Art gallery in Khalidiya on Thursday and all the proceeds will go to supporting the women at the shelter.
