Our main goal is to encourage and boost the self-esteem of those overcoming domestic violence
the difference between the Windows Program and art therapy
The A Window Between Worlds (AWBW) workshops offer a process of self-expression, self-exploration, and self-interpretation. Unlike art therapy, there is no therapist or other authority responsible for interpretation or diagnosis. Each participant is in charge of her own creative exploration. For women and children who have been living under the control of another human being for so long, a simple art experience can provide a powerful opportunity to notice for the first time that they have the freedom to decide what they want to create. By placing the authority in the hands of each participant, the Windows workshops create an environment where survivors effectively support each other and take leadership in finding their own solutions.
how the art workshops help
These workshops help women and children coming out of violent relationships to recover their self-esteem and hope, as well as envision steps to a positive future through creative means. Many survivors keep their stories buried or suppressed and domestic violence feeds on silencing it's victims. Through the workshops inner feelings get unstuck from their frozen state and locked up issues are safely released through the artistic process. Where it might be difficult to talk directly with a counselor the art provides a voice for the survivor to be heard. Some shelters or transitional programs use these art pieces with the help of a professional counselor to help them further dialogue with the individuals. However not all places we have administered AWBW workshops has an on staff counselor, thus these programs are very cost effective to help victims move into survivors and then into warriors who now feel confident in moving forward.
We recommend participating in a six-week group session with others who are going through similar experiences helps restore security, trust, accountability, and a sense of community. We have found one lesson yes is freeing but most of us have accumulated baggage that needs to be addressed.
Before the workshop begin participants are encouraged to participate in a visualization or movement activity to connect to the particular theme in the workshop. These themes can focus on abuse, fears, how to handle anger, safety and security, setting boundaries, dreams and visions, relationships, and other issues surrounding trauma. When participants enter the art section of the workshop they are encouraged to focus on themselves and not creating a "perfect art piece", the objective is to get in touch with your personal emotions and thoughts. At the conclusion of the exercise, participants have the opportunity to share their piece and be heard.
Upcoming workshops
“The workshop gave me such support. I feel renewed, like I have clarity to carry into my month ahead. Thank you so much! I feel such support from each person in the group. ”
what to expect
Participants begin with a self-evaluation, journal the process, and complete a final assessment at the conclusion of the six-week session. Assessments and artwork are used in conjunction with social workers and counselors to help bring healing and wholeness. A documented as well as a verbal progress evaluation are given to teachers regarding progress and breakthroughs that occurred during the sessions. The session concludes with sharing and journaling. Journaling provides markers on the path toward wholeness and reflections that can be perused throughout participants' journeys. After the sessions there is voluntary sharing about how the experience helped participants.
These testimonials are recorded along with feedback from the art sessions.
“The power of being here with all these women in this setting surpasses any of my other means of healing from my fear and shame. ”
“Sharing in this group makes hard things feel manageable. ”
Workshop locations
Artesia will host a single workshop as well as a 6 week workshop at our studio in Ventura, in Camarillo , or at a shelter, center, or clinic here in Ventura County. We have conducted past ongoing workshops at the Salvation Army Shelter, Sheridan Way Center, Prototypes Women’s Center, among others. Working in conjunction with counseling programs at these centers, Artesia has significantly helped individuals through the healing process.