Unspoken: Survivors Stories V

Dark Clouds
Mixed Media
20 X 27
$390.

You can see this work in person at the Mood Room.

I have suffered from depression and anxiety most of my life.  I have a son who died by suicide after dealing with depression, anxiety and borderline personality disorder for more than 30 years.  So our lives have for many years been influenced  by all that leads to suicide.  Painting these three works has allowed me to express my feelings and emotions.  The one titled Stairways to Heaven has helped me understand that there are many ways to peace and that we will all be together again in the eternities.

Anni M Lines
Confusion
Mixed Media
20 X 26
$635

You can see this work in person at the Mood Room.

I have suffered from depression and anxiety most of my life.  I have a son who died by suicide after dealing with depression, anxiety and borderline personality disorder for more than 30 years.  So our lives have for many years been influenced  by all that leads to suicide.  Painting these 3 works has allowed me to express my feelings and emotions.  The one titled Stairways to Heaven has helped me understand that there are many ways to peace and that we will all be together again in the eternities.

Stairways to Heaven
Mixed Media
25 X 31
$355.

You can see this work in person at the Mood Room.

I have suffered from depression and anxiety most of my life.  I have a son who died by suicide after dealing with depression, anxiety and borderline personality disorder for more than 3o years.  So our lives have for many years been influenced  by all that leads to suicide.  Painting these 3 works has allowed me to express my feelings and emotions.  The one titled Stairways to Heaven has helped me understand that there are many ways to peace and that we will all be together again in the eternities.

Annet’s Goodbye
Mixed Media
8 x 10
$133

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.
I have struggled with depression and suicidal thoughts since I was very young. I attempted suicide at the age of 14 and have never had the courage to share my story until now. These paintings have helped me to release a lot of feelings I’ve kept hidden for quite some time. I chose now to share my experiences with suicide in hopes to make it a little easier for someone else to realize that they are not alone in this.

Fall from Grace
collage-on-mannequin
30 x 15
NFS

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.

Sitting in front of dozens of life-size, vintage mannequins carefully collaged with thousands of tiny, torn bits of paper is unlike any other art experience. It’s almost like being at a silent poetry reading where glossy, three dimensional men, women and children tell their non-linear stories in crooked words, colorful clips, black and white photographs, and evocative images. They wear their statements out loud. They point out duality without judgement. And they nakedly display, from head to toe, all the beauty, agony , hypocrisy, and holiness of the human predicament.

Unborn
collage-on-mannequin
24 x 15
$1,200.

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.

Sitting in front of dozens of life-size, vintage mannequins carefully collaged with thousands of tiny, torn bits of paper is unlike any other art experience. It’s almost like being at a silent poetry reading where glossy, three dimensional men, women and children tell their non-linear stories in crooked words, colorful clips, black and white photographs, and evocative images. They wear their statements out loud. They point out duality without judgement. And they nakedly display, from head to toe, all the beauty, agony , hypocrisy, and holiness of the human predicament.

7 Pieces of Chicken
Acrylic
12 X 12
$149

See this in person at the Mood Room.

This acrylic dot painting is based on a puzzle that originated in China during the late 18th or early 19th century. A Tangram puzzle consists of seven pieces – five triangles (two large, one medium, two small), one square, and one parallelogram. The objective is to form specific shapes using all seven pieces without overlapping. All seven pieces must be used, they must lie flat, they must touch but not overlap, and they can be rotated or flipped as needed.

Dana’s art has been exhibited at several Phoenix locations including the Unexpected Art Gallery, Eye Lounge, Arizona Artists Guild, Carl T. Hayden VA Medical Center and at the Mayo Hospital. Dana is actively exploring dot art and mindfulness. Dot art often requires time and patience. The intense focus creating each dot helps quiet the mind, pushing away distracting thoughts. The slow, deliberate process of dot painting helps cultivate a sense of calm and reduces stress.

Dana Krieger
Hummingbird
Acrylic
12 X 12
$199

See this in person at the Mood Room

Dana’s art has been exhibited at several Phoenix locations including the Unexpected Art Gallery, Eye Lounge, Arizona Artists Guild, Carl T. Hayden VA Medical Center and at the Mayo Hospital. Dana is actively exploring dot art and mindfulness. Dot art often requires time and patience. The intense focus creating each dot helps quiet the mind, pushing away distracting thoughts. The slow, deliberate process of dot painting helps cultivate a sense of calm and reduces stress.

Purr – Chance to Dream
Acrylic
12 X 12
$299

See this in person at the Mood Room.

Dana’s art has been exhibited at several Phoenix locations including the Unexpected Art Gallery, Eye Lounge, Arizona Artists Guild, Carl T. Hayden VA Medical Center and at the Mayo Hospital. Dana is actively exploring dot art and mindfulness. Dot art often requires time and patience. The intense focus creating each dot helps quiet the mind, pushing away distracting thoughts. The slow, deliberate process of dot painting helps cultivate a sense of calm and reduces stress.

Fallen Not Broken
acrylic
24 x 18
NFS

You can see this in person at the Mood Room.

I externalize through painting what I experience psychologically, both the pain and the beauty of remebering.

Becoming
acrylic
14 x 11
NFS

You can see this in person at the Mood Room.

I externalize through painting what I experience psychologically, both the pain and the beauty of remebering.

Empowered
Acrylic
24 x 18
NFS

You can see this in person at the Mood Room.

I externalize through painting what I experience psychologically, both the pain and the beauty of remebering.

Meeting My Goddess
Acrylic
14 x 18
NFS

You can see this in person at the Mood Room.

I externalize through painting what I experience psychologically, both the pain and the beauty of remebering.

Jackson Kloog
Into Reality
Acrylic on Canvas
12 x 16
$500

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.

I was born and raised in Arizona as the youngest of 5 children. In 2016, I graduated from The University of the Arts in Philadelphia with a BFA in Illustration with a minor in Printmaking and Book Arts, then moved back home to Arizona. I have struggled with depression and anxiety my whole life, and I have lost loved ones to suicide. I’ve always had a hard time finding words for my feelings, but through my artwork, I’m able to say how I really feel.

Waiting For The End
Acrylic on Canvas
11 x 14
$500

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.

I was born and raised in Arizona as the youngest of 5 children. In 2016, I graduated from The University of the Arts in Philadelphia with a BFA in Illustration with a minor in Printmaking and Book Arts, then moved back home to Arizona. I have struggled with depression and anxiety my whole life, and I have lost loved ones to suicide. I’ve always had a hard time finding words for my feelings, but through my artwork, I’m able to say how I really feel.

Corona Aurora at Twisp, WA
Digital photo
11 x 14
NFS

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.

Kevin Nielsen is a free-lance photographer and videographer living on a mountaintop in the Pacific Northwest where he frequently sees beautiful clouds and the aurora.

Wild Sheep Face-Off
Digital photo
11 x 14
NFS

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.

Kevin Nielsen is a free-lance photographer and videographer living on a mountaintop in the Pacific Northwest where he frequently sees beautiful clouds and the aurora.

Sunset at Twisp, WA
Digital photo
11 x 14
NFS

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.

Kevin Nielsen is a free-lance photographer and videographer living on a mountaintop in the Pacific Northwest where he frequently sees beautiful clouds and the aurora.

Ebb and Flow No. 1
Watercolor on plywood
31×18
NFS

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.

To create these paintings, I slowly and carefully layer washes of color on the natural grain of the wood. I enjoy the process, watching the colors merge with the  wood’s organic texture. 

Kristel is co-founder and executive director of Your Art Your Story.

Ebb and Flow No. 2
Watercolor on plywood
16 x 24
NFS

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.

To create these paintings, I slowly and carefully layer washes of color on the natural grain of the wood. I enjoy the process, watching the colors merge with the  wood’s organic texture. 

Kristel is co-founder and executive director of Your Art Your Story.

Be Brave
Mixed media
22×13
NFS

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.

Be Brave was an affirmation that guided me while I supported my loved one through a mental health crisis. Saturated colors represent the intense challenge and emotions of the experience.

Kristel is co-founder and executive director of Your Art Your Story.

Kurt von Behrmann
Jericho
Acrylic on Canvas Board
6 x 12
$120.

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.

My paintings and drawings are a reflection of what I have seen, and felt.   The most recent works use recognizable things as well as abstract elements to express my own mental health journey.  Duality is very much a part of bipolar and it appears in my work in terms of mirrored reflections of images.

The Unhappiness Machine
assorted colored pencil on paper
9 x 12
$80.

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.

My paintings and drawings are a reflection of what I have seen, and felt.   The most recent works use recognizable things as well as abstract elements to express my own mental health journey.  Duality is very much a part of bipolar and it appears in my work in terms of mirrored reflections of images.

Joachim
Acrylic on canvas painting
15 x 15
$300

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.

My paintings and drawings are a reflection of what I have seen, and felt.   The most recent works use recognizable things as well as abstract elements to express my own mental health journey.  Duality is very much a part of bipolar and it appears in my work in terms of mirrored reflections of images.

Volcanic Burst
Acrylic on canvas
12x16x1.5
$300

See this painting in person at the Mood Room

As an abstract artist, Liminal Layers explores the interplay of colors, forms, and textures to evoke emotions and create connections beyond words. Their paintings reflect the fluidity of human experience, capturing the unseen layers of our inner worlds.

For Liminal Layers, art serves as a temenos—a safe and sacred space to process the personal impact of suicide and other challenges. Creating has been a therapeutic refuge, a way to navigate difficult emotions and transform them into something that speaks to resilience and hope. Through their work, Liminal Layers hopes to connect with others who have faced similar struggles, offering a shared space of understanding and solace.

Trickster Energy
Acrylic on canvas
11x14x1.5
$250

See this painting in person at the Mood Room

As an abstract artist, Liminal Layers explores the interplay of colors, forms, and textures to evoke emotions and create connections beyond words. Their paintings reflect the fluidity of human experience, capturing the unseen layers of our inner worlds.

For Liminal Layers, art serves as a temenos—a safe and sacred space to process the personal impact of suicide and other challenges. Creating has been a therapeutic refuge, a way to navigate difficult emotions and transform them into something that speaks to resilience and hope. Through their work, Liminal Layers hopes to connect with others who have faced similar struggles, offering a shared space of understanding and solace.

Vivid Abyss
Acrylic on canvas
12 x 16 x 1.5
$285

See this painting in person at the Mood Room

As an abstract artist, Liminal Layers explores the interplay of colors, forms, and textures to evoke emotions and create connections beyond words. Their paintings reflect the fluidity of human experience, capturing the unseen layers of our inner worlds.

For Liminal Layers, art serves as a temenos—a safe and sacred space to process the personal impact of suicide and other challenges. Creating has been a therapeutic refuge, a way to navigate difficult emotions and transform them into something that speaks to resilience and hope. Through their work, Liminal Layers hopes to connect with others who have faced similar struggles, offering a shared space of understanding and solace.

Plaid-ish
Cotton Fiber
14 x 74
$250

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.

Creating fiber art is a meditative process. It helps calm my mind and takes me out of any anxiety or worry. I also love that I work in a medium that can be used to keep people warm. I weave and knit and make art with old and traditionally feminine art forms.

Change Your Perspective
Ink, gelly roll, graphite and chalk pencil on paper
16 x 16
NFS

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.

Take a closer look at something bad you wished would have happened differently and use parts of it to create something new and better. You did the best you could with what you had and what you knew at the time. Experiences since then with a new perspective won’t erase the bad, but parts of the bad can be used for good.

I now have two distinct lives – the one before and the one after my son Alex’s suicide, yet even parts of the trauma that divides those lives can have a positive influence on the life I live now as it continues on without him. I can transform the person I became after the trauma of his death into someone I can appreciate and love, rather than regard with disdain and regret.

About the concept: I took a class from Doris Bisschop, Certified Zentangle Teacher in Holland who had us make a “magnifying glass” tool and encouraged us to find previous tiles we created and don’t like and use the tool to find parts of those tiles we do like and recreate them on new tiles. In the center square are tiles I created early in my Zentangle® practice and the surrounding circles contain the magnified portions created this year.

Rose
Mixed Media
15.5 x12.5
$320

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.
For me, art is the point of contact. Art has given me a sense of community, of shared emotions and experience. My canvas is a portal where I can open to others and make a connection.  It is powerful, when we discover that we are not alone.

Glow Light
Acrylic
13.5 x17.5
$320

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.
For me, art is the point of contact. Art has given me a sense of community, of shared emotions and experience. My canvas is a portal where I can open to others and make a connection.  It is powerful, when we discover that we are not alone.

Peacock
Acrylic
13 x 16
$320

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.
For me, art is the point of contact. Art has given me a sense of community, of shared emotions and experience. My canvas is a portal where I can open to others and make a connection.  It is powerful, when we discover that we are not alone.

Sorrow
Oil Pastels
16 x 20
$200

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.

As an artist the unspoken word and as a survivors and witness of self lost life, the is a subject the touches me deeply.  I am glad to let my energy flow and my emotions released in my art.  Thank you for the opportunity to express my concerns visually on this subject.

Receiving The Urn
Oil Pastels
16 x 20
$200

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.

As an artist the unspoken word and as a survivors and witness of self lost life, the is a subject the touches me deeply.  I am glad to let my energy flow and my emotions released in my art.  Thank you for the opportunity to express my concerns visually on this subject.

Life Station No. 6
acrylic
20 x 24
$245

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.

I dedicate this painting to the lost.  But perhaps more importantly, to those of us who remain beyond them.  I saw this un-lifeguarded station on the beach recently and was so taken with it I felt I had to paint it.  It struck me instantly that we very much need to learn to recognize the Life Stations out in this world.  We need to search for and find them, for ourselves and others. Perhaps it is a friend, a stranger, an experience, place or time.  Sometimes a single smile or small kindness will do.  Someone out there needs a Life Station No. 6.

Be Still
Mixed media on canvas
24×36
$1,200

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.

I believe art is not only therapeutic for the artist, but for the viewers as well. Art speaks when words fail.

Keep on Rockin!!
Social Interaction (Social Practice Artwork)
30 inches X 40 inches
NFS

You can see this in person at the Mood Room.

I gave a TEDx talk explaining how a fortuitous moment of laughter from The Late Show with Stephen Colbert stopped me from dying by suicide at 10:44pm on November 2, 2015. Sparking this ongoing, riveting 82,000-mile creative odyssey.

I’m a Phoenix-based artist continuing to create social practice artwork with the medium of human interaction. I’ve engaged 33,335 complete strangers one by one on my 3,194-day cross-country adventure of recovery from PTSD following a wicked rape and beating at the hands of three men.

Those strangers have contributed vibrant stories of how they have been impacted by suicide, sexual violence, loneliness, and isolation. Their contributions are written with 32 Sharpie marker colors in 94 languages on 508 giant foam boards.

Their stories fully support my determined efforts to recover and to get on The Late Show. Where (fingers crossed) I will be invited to deliver this massive display of hope to that popular late-night comedy show in New York City.

To inform, entertain, and inspire millions of viewers to see that no one walks alone through trauma. And to demonstrate that comedy is not the absence of trauma. It’s about taking our traumas and finding a way to still laugh.

These boards of art are all about moxie, discovery, ingenuity, spontaneity, love, bravery, variety, exhilaration, surprise, unity, and one simple joke that lit the fuse…keeping me from suicide. And keeping the art of storytelling alive. So especially important for sexual violence survivors.

Like a Black Cat
Social Interaction (Social Practice Artwork)
30 inches X 40 inches
NFS

You can see this in person at the Mood Room.

I gave a TEDx talk explaining how a fortuitous moment of laughter from The Late Show with Stephen Colbert stopped me from dying by suicide at 10:44pm on November 2, 2015. Sparking this ongoing, riveting 82,000-mile creative odyssey.

I’m a Phoenix-based artist continuing to create social practice artwork with the medium of human interaction. I’ve engaged 33,335 complete strangers one by one on my 3,194-day cross-country adventure of recovery from PTSD following a wicked rape and beating at the hands of three men.

Those strangers have contributed vibrant stories of how they have been impacted by suicide, sexual violence, loneliness, and isolation. Their contributions are written with 32 Sharpie marker colors in 94 languages on 508 giant foam boards.

Their stories fully support my determined efforts to recover and to get on The Late Show. Where (fingers crossed) I will be invited to deliver this massive display of hope to that popular late-night comedy show in New York City.

To inform, entertain, and inspire millions of viewers to see that no one walks alone through trauma. And to demonstrate that comedy is not the absence of trauma. It’s about taking our traumas and finding a way to still laugh.

These boards of art are all about moxie, discovery, ingenuity, spontaneity, love, bravery, variety, exhilaration, surprise, unity, and one simple joke that lit the fuse…keeping me from suicide. And keeping the art of storytelling alive. So especially important for sexual violence survivors.

Through the Lens of Depression
Photography
12 x 18
$125

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.

My photography has been my go-to through the hills and valleys of life. It has truly been a source of calm in the storms, helping me see the beauty around me that sometimes, through the lens of depression, is hard to see.

This series depicts the difficulty of living in a state of depression and the thoughts that can come because of it, but that although thoughts can be distorted, there can still be a glimmer of hope shining through the darkness that turns us into survivors.

Thoughts Shatter
Photography
12 x 18
$125

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.

My photography has been my go-to through the hills and valleys of life. It has truly been a source of calm in the storms, helping me see the beauty around me that sometimes, through the lens of depression, is hard to see.

This series depicts the difficulty of living in a state of depression and the thoughts that can come because of it, but that although thoughts can be distorted, there can still be a glimmer of hope shining through the darkness that turns us into survivors.

Hope Shines Through
Photography
12 x 18
$125

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.

My photography has been my go-to through the hills and valleys of life. It has truly been a source of calm in the storms, helping me see the beauty around me that sometimes, through the lens of depression, is hard to see.

This series depicts the difficulty of living in a state of depression and the thoughts that can come because of it, but that although thoughts can be distorted, there can still be a glimmer of hope shining through the darkness that turns us into survivors.

Sunset on the Pond
Acrylic
13 x 18
$300

Autumn Mist
Acrylic Print
13 x 16
$250

Solar Wind
Acrylic Pour
9 x 9
$300

The mouse that started it all
Mixed media and found objects
8 x 10 x 4
NFS

You can see this at the Mood Room

Untitled Mixed media and found objects
9 x 11 x 17
NFS

You can see this at the Mood Room

Untitled
Mixed media and found objects
19 x 15 x 15
NFS

You can see this at the Mood Room

Threads of Healing: A Floral Embrace
Ceramics
4.25 x 3
$200

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.

As this piece was drying, I noticed a crack in the area where I attached the flower. Normally, I would have compressed the clay to fill it in, but this time, I chose to leave it “cracked” (only superficially) so I could highlight it with 22k gold luster, turning a perceived flaw into a focal point of beauty.

For those of you familiar with my work, you know that I explore many different aesthetics, but one that has truly captivated my heart is wabi-sabi. Through my workshops with Japanese masters, I’ve grown to appreciate this philosophy, which finds beauty in imperfection, transience, and simplicity. It’s a mindset that is beautiful, forgiving, mindful, and deeply inspiring. This approach contrasts with how I initially perceived ceramics—where perfection seemed the goal, with no trace of human touch.

My work that embraces imperfection often leans towards a more masculine energy. But with this piece, I wanted to craft something that feels both imperfect and feminine—a reflection of the pressures women face to always present our best selves, even when life makes it incredibly difficult.

Through my art practice, I find myself evolving—becoming more accepting of what I once saw as undesirable within myself. This mug embodies that journey, yet also acknowledges the ongoing struggle to fully embrace our own imperfections.

So, here is this mug: a celebration of the beauty in our flaws, and a reminder that our perceived imperfections are often what make us truly unique and beautiful.

Garden Fairy Dreams Tea Set: Tea For Three
Ceramics  Teapot
8.25 x 7; Flower cup 4 x 3.25; small cups 3.25 x 3
$500.

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.

Art is a healing balm for my soul. Through my work, I strive to channel emotions into pieces that resonate with hope, resilience, and the beauty of life’s small moments. Each creation, whether a delicate teapot or a whimsical watercolor palette, is a testament to the power of art to transform pain into something beautiful. My “Garden Fairy Dreams” series, featured in this show, is inspired by the belief that even in the darkest times, there is light and love to be found. I hope these pieces bring comfort and inspiration to those who need it most.

Brushstrokes of Hope
Mixed media, porcelain & rose quartz
Palette 9 x 5 and water cup brush holder 3 x 3
$350

You can see this piece in person at the Mood Room.

Art is a healing balm for my soul. Through my work, I strive to channel emotions into pieces that resonate with hope, resilience, and the beauty of life’s small moments. Each creation, whether a delicate teapot or a whimsical watercolor palette, is a testament to the power of art to transform pain into something beautiful. My “Garden Fairy Dreams” series, featured in this show, is inspired by the belief that even in the darkest times, there is light and love to be found. I hope these pieces bring comfort and inspiration to those who need it most.

Beach Dream
chime
Embroidery
NFS

My name is April Angela Garcia. I’m a survivor going on 4 years. I found art as an outlet. I found embroidery and dream catchers as an interest and combined them together to make my dream chimes. I make them and give them to people who are going through tough times in hopes to inspire them with my work and story.

Seashell Dream
chime
Embroidery
NFS

My name is April Angela Garcia. I’m a survivor going on 4 years. I found art as an outlet. I found embroidery and dream catchers as an interest and combined them together to make my dream chimes. I make them and give them to people who are going through tough times in hopes to inspire them with my work and story.

Altered perception
Ink
8.5 x 11
NFS

I enjoy art as a healing outlet.

Sad Dog
Ink
9 x 12
NFS

I enjoy art as a healing outlet.

waves of grief
pen and ink
7  x 7
NFS

Holding grief delicately. Inspired by my late partner and the waves of grief I experience years after his loss.

Drowning in the lilies

My daughter, Serena, loved lilies, shrubs, fruit trees and more. I’ve added lilies to our backyard that are just by chance named Serena Darkhorse developed by Marshall-B. and registered in 1984, the year our Serena was born.

Lost in her moonlight

No matter what I draw or paint my daughter who ended her life on earth always sneaks into my work.

She’s in the sky

No matter what I draw or paint my daughter who ended her life on earth always sneaks into my work.

Live, Love, Pain #2

Artist and Fisherman Extraordinaire: Jacque Chatman  Jacque Chatman is a true Renaissance man, blending his passions for art, animal rehabilitation, and fishing into a life dedicated to creativity, compassion, and community.

As a featured artist in the “Color Your Story Onto Mine” gallery, Jacque’s work not only captivates with its aesthetic beauty but also tells powerful stories of resilience and transformation.

Jacque is the visionary founder of “Aria’s Legacy Kennels” in Memphis, TN, a pioneering program designed to foster bonds between single fathers and their daughters through responsible animal breeding and training, enriched by the transformative power of music. His innovative methods, which have successfully rehabilitated dogs once deemed too aggressive for domestication, are a testament to his commitment to non-violent and compassionate training techniques. By incorporating music into the training process, Jacque creates a nurturing environment that fosters deeper connections between the animals and their human companions.

Breaking the Cycle of Violence: Jacque’s approach transcends traditional animal care, addressing the root causes of aggression by considering the unresolved traumas of pet owners. Through “Aria’s Legacy Kennels” he offers a unique solution that provides both animals and their owners a pathway to healing and harmony. This work aligns seamlessly with his artistic endeavors, where themes of resilience and recovery often emerge.

Beyond his impactful work with animals, Jacque is also a passionate fisherman. His popular YouTube channel, “MemphisFishing20” showcases his love for fishing, offering tips, tutorials, and engaging content that highlight the joy and relaxation found in the sport. Through his channel, Jacque shares his love for nature, promoting positive and engaging experiences for his audience.

As one of the featured artists in the “Color Your Story Onto Mine” gallery, Jacque’s artwork reflects his multifaceted talents and his dedication to healing through creative expression. His pieces are not only visually stunning but also imbued with stories of second chances and the power of non-violent, compassionate care. Jacque’s art serves as a beacon of hope and transformation, resonating deeply with viewers and inspiring them to embrace their own journeys of resilience and growth.

one month after
mixed media

My name is Madz (they/them) and I’m located in Denver, Colorado. In November of 2023, my girlfriend completed suicide. I fell apart and didn’t know how to cope.

Throughout my life, I have developed a strong artist identity and have used art to help me heal. I am also an art therapist and use art to help my clients heal daily. I knew I had to return to art to help me process my girlfriend’s death but I felt resistance. It felt like a tremendous task and I didn’t want to “taint” artmaking with the immense emotions I felt. With the encouragement of my own art therapist, I was able to start creating again. I got a large canvas that I allowed myself to work on any time I felt strong emotion related to my grief. I quickly felt complete with it and realized that I needed more than one.

My grief was too large for one canvas. I ended up with three paintings, displaying various stages of grief I was experiencing. Each painting is titled with the length of time in which I finished the painting after my girlfriend’s passing. These pieces have helped me sort through my emotions and feel empowered in my grief instead of completely lost and overwhelmed. They are a reminder that I am only grieving so deeply because I got the chance to love so deeply. These paintings turned out to be even more beautiful than I could have imagined and are easily my favorite creations to date. Creating art didn’t end up tainting it for me, it instead highlighted the importance of using art for healing. I hope you’re able, through my art, to better understand what it’s like to lose someone the way I have.

three months after
mixed media

My name is Madz (they/them) and I’m located in Denver, Colorado. In November of 2023, my girlfriend completed suicide. I fell apart and didn’t know how to cope.

Throughout my life, I have developed a strong artist identity and have used art to help me heal. I am also an art therapist and use art to help my clients heal daily. I knew I had to return to art to help me process my girlfriend’s death but I felt resistance. It felt like a tremendous task and I didn’t want to “taint” artmaking with the immense emotions I felt. With the encouragement of my own art therapist, I was able to start creating again. I got a large canvas that I allowed myself to work on any time I felt strong emotion related to my grief. I quickly felt complete with it and realized that I needed more than one.

My grief was too large for one canvas. I ended up with three paintings, displaying various stages of grief I was experiencing. Each painting is titled with the length of time in which I finished the painting after my girlfriend’s passing. These pieces have helped me sort through my emotions and feel empowered in my grief instead of completely lost and overwhelmed. They are a reminder that I am only grieving so deeply because I got the chance to love so deeply. These paintings turned out to be even more beautiful than I could have imagined and are easily my favorite creations to date. Creating art didn’t end up tainting it for me, it instead highlighted the importance of using art for healing. I hope you’re able, through my art, to better understand what it’s like to lose someone the way I have.

six months after
mixed media

My name is Madz (they/them) and I’m located in Denver, Colorado. In November of 2023, my girlfriend completed suicide. I fell apart and didn’t know how to cope.

Throughout my life, I have developed a strong artist identity and have used art to help me heal. I am also an art therapist and use art to help my clients heal daily. I knew I had to return to art to help me process my girlfriend’s death but I felt resistance. It felt like a tremendous task and I didn’t want to “taint” artmaking with the immense emotions I felt. With the encouragement of my own art therapist, I was able to start creating again. I got a large canvas that I allowed myself to work on any time I felt strong emotion related to my grief. I quickly felt complete with it and realized that I needed more than one.

My grief was too large for one canvas. I ended up with three paintings, displaying various stages of grief I was experiencing. Each painting is titled with the length of time in which I finished the painting after my girlfriend’s passing. These pieces have helped me sort through my emotions and feel empowered in my grief instead of completely lost and overwhelmed. They are a reminder that I am only grieving so deeply because I got the chance to love so deeply. These paintings turned out to be even more beautiful than I could have imagined and are easily my favorite creations to date. Creating art didn’t end up tainting it for me, it instead highlighted the importance of using art for healing. I hope you’re able, through my art, to better understand what it’s like to lose someone the way I have.

Spring Desert

After losing both of my boys, I have found some healing through art. Art is a healthy outlet, it helps me be mindful.

Hidden Heart

After losing both of my boys, I have found some healing through art. Art is a healthy outlet, it helps me be mindful.

Lapis

After losing both of my boys, I have found some healing through art. Art is a healthy outlet, it helps me be mindful.

The Decomposition of Self

I arrived in Toronto, Canada in August 2017 from Vietnam at the age of 17, in the midst of a battle with my mental health. Growing up in Vietnam, I often felt isolated, a feeling that intensified during my teenage years. By the end of 2015, I found myself overwhelmed and attempted to end my life. My family, steeped in traditional Vietnamese values, struggled to understand my struggles. Mental illness was not something they acknowledged, and despite seeking medical help, I was left undiagnosed and untreated in a society that often views mental health as a fabricated issue. In early 2017, my father, in a moment of desperation, made the bold decision to send me to Canada, believing it might be a way out of the darkness that had engulfed me. It was a gamble, one that he himself doubted, but it turned out to be the right decision. Upon arriving in Toronto, I enrolled in a public high school, where I was unexpectedly placed in a visual art class. I had never painted before, but in that class, I began to finger paint my feelings. My art teacher saw something in my work that I hadn’t recognized in myself—a hidden talent for expressing emotion through art. Art became my lifeline. Through painting, I found a way to channel my emotions and confront the turmoil within me. It was a means of self-discovery, allowing me to explore my identity without judgment or expectation. As I delved deeper into my art, I began to heal. The act of creation became a conversation between my subconscious and the world, a bridge that helped me connect with others in a way I had never experienced before. My artwork is a reflection of this journey—a journey from isolation and despair to self-understanding and communication. Each piece I create is an exploration of the liminal space between my conscious and unconscious mind, a place where vulnerability is revealed and the absurdities of life are confronted. My art lays bare the psychological constraints imposed by my female identity, the struggle to understand my own nature, and the fight to break free from societal and emotional bondage. Participating in the 5th Annual Unspoken: Survivor Stories exhibition is a profound opportunity for me. It allows me to share my story and my art with others who may have walked a similar path. Through this exhibition, I hope to contribute to the collective effort to raise awareness about suicide and mental health. My story, like my art, is one of survival, resilience, and the power of creativity as a tool for healing.

Gladiator view of Westminster
Photography
16 x 20
£200

Kelani Olalekan Abdul-Qowiyu is a versatile visual artist specializing in travel and fine art photography, focusing on culture, lifestyle, and the environment. As the founder of SBK-Kelani, his work has been featured in international and local publications, showcasing the raw beauty of nature and the diverse human experience.  With a Master’s degree in Project Management, Kelani blends creativity with strategic thinking in his artistic pursuits. His “tour with Kelani” project highlights Nigeria’s cultural heritage and tourism, inspiring others to explore the world’s diversity.  Kelani is dedicated to mentoring students in photography and is an active member of Diversify Photos and Indigenous Photography, advocating for diversity and inclusion in the photography community. Through his lens, he invites viewers on a journey of discovery, capturing the essence of moments and fostering cultural dialogue.

Kelani Olalekan Abdul-Qowiyu is a versatile visual artist specializing in travel and fine art photography, focusing on culture, lifestyle, and the environment. As the founder of SBK-Kelani, his work has been featured in international and local publications, showcasing the raw beauty of nature and the diverse human experience.  With a Master’s degree in Project Management, Kelani blends creativity with strategic thinking in his artistic pursuits. His “tour with Kelani” project highlights Nigeria’s cultural heritage and tourism, inspiring others to explore the world’s diversity.  Kelani is dedicated to mentoring students in photography and is an active member of Diversify Photos and Indigenous Photography, advocating for diversity and inclusion in the photography community. Through his lens, he invites viewers on a journey of discovery, capturing the essence of moments and fostering cultural dialogue.

The magnificent cathedral wall of Chichester
Photography
16 X 20
£500

Kelani Olalekan Abdul-Qowiyu is a versatile visual artist specializing in travel and fine art photography, focusing on culture, lifestyle, and the environment. As the founder of SBK-Kelani, his work has been featured in international and local publications, showcasing the raw beauty of nature and the diverse human experience.  With a Master’s degree in Project Management, Kelani blends creativity with strategic thinking in his artistic pursuits. His “tour with Kelani” project highlights Nigeria’s cultural heritage and tourism, inspiring others to explore the world’s diversity.  Kelani is dedicated to mentoring students in photography and is an active member of Diversify Photos and Indigenous Photography, advocating for diversity and inclusion in the photography community. Through his lens, he invites viewers on a journey of discovery, capturing the essence of moments and fostering cultural dialogue.

So That Others May Live
Acrylic on Wood
9 x 12
$150

My story is a simple one. I started painting in my 60’s and I paint from my heart. I use different mediums as the mood strikes me. Our life has been affected by a number of suicides and traumatic events. These paintings reflect feelings of the soldiers during war and the after effects.

Feeling The Pain of War
Acrylic on Wood
9 x 12
$150

My story is a simple one. I started painting in my 60’s and I paint from my heart. I use different mediums as the mood strikes me. Our life has been affected by a number of suicides and traumatic events. These paintings reflect feelings of the soldiers during war and the after effects.

Tattooed by War
Acrylic on Wood
8×10
$150

My story is a simple one. I started painting in my 60’s and I paint from my heart. I use different mediums as the mood strikes me. Our life has been affected by a number of suicides and traumatic events. These paintings reflect feelings of the soldiers during war and the after effects.

Mental Illness
Acrylic
12 x 16
$127

Exhibition Summary for “Rage” “Sanctuary” and “Lay It Down At The Cross”  1. Rage: Recognizing One’s Rage Helps Pinpoint the Sadness Within In this evocative painting, the intense colors and dynamic brushstrokes convey the raw power of rage. The artist masterfully captures the chaos and intensity of this emotion, revealing how rage often serves as a mask for deeper sadness. By recognizing and acknowledging their rage, viewers are invited to delve deeper into their emotions, pinpointing the underlying sorrow that fuels such intense feelings. The work encourages a journey of self-discovery and emotional healing, urging viewers to confront and understand the true sources of their anger.  2. Sanctuary: By Tapping into the Child Within to Comfort and Redeem, What Was Once Your Prison of Trauma Can Become One’s Sanctuary This serene and introspective piece depicts a tranquil, safe space where the inner child is nurtured and healed. Soft, soothing colors and gentle, protective imagery create a sense of calm and safety. The painting illustrates the transformative power of self-compassion and healing, suggesting that by reconnecting with and comforting the inner child, one can turn a past filled with trauma into a place of refuge and peace. It serves as a reminder that healing is possible, and that one’s sanctuary can be found within, transforming past pains into a source of strength and solace.  3. Lay It Down at the Cross: The Realization that Letting Go and Facing Thyself by Laying All Sins, Shame, and Rage Down Onto a Higher Power Jesus Christ Voluntarily Died Just for This This powerful and spiritually charged painting features a symbolic cross bathed in light, representing the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The composition conveys a sense of surrender and release, as figures are depicted laying down their burdens at the foot of the cross. The use of light and shadow highlights the transformative moment of letting go, facing one’s sins, shame, and rage, and entrusting them to a higher power. This artwork speaks to the profound spiritual relief and redemption found in faith, encouraging viewers to embrace the liberation that comes from surrendering their deepest burdens to Christ.

Rage
Acrylic
12 x 16
$127

Exhibition Summary for “Rage” “Sanctuary” and “Lay It Down At The Cross”  1. Rage: Recognizing One’s Rage Helps Pinpoint the Sadness Within In this evocative painting, the intense colors and dynamic brushstrokes convey the raw power of rage. The artist masterfully captures the chaos and intensity of this emotion, revealing how rage often serves as a mask for deeper sadness. By recognizing and acknowledging their rage, viewers are invited to delve deeper into their emotions, pinpointing the underlying sorrow that fuels such intense feelings. The work encourages a journey of self-discovery and emotional healing, urging viewers to confront and understand the true sources of their anger.  2. Sanctuary: By Tapping into the Child Within to Comfort and Redeem, What Was Once Your Prison of Trauma Can Become One’s Sanctuary This serene and introspective piece depicts a tranquil, safe space where the inner child is nurtured and healed. Soft, soothing colors and gentle, protective imagery create a sense of calm and safety. The painting illustrates the transformative power of self-compassion and healing, suggesting that by reconnecting with and comforting the inner child, one can turn a past filled with trauma into a place of refuge and peace. It serves as a reminder that healing is possible, and that one’s sanctuary can be found within, transforming past pains into a source of strength and solace.  3. Lay It Down at the Cross: The Realization that Letting Go and Facing Thyself by Laying All Sins, Shame, and Rage Down Onto a Higher Power Jesus Christ Voluntarily Died Just for This This powerful and spiritually charged painting features a symbolic cross bathed in light, representing the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The composition conveys a sense of surrender and release, as figures are depicted laying down their burdens at the foot of the cross. The use of light and shadow highlights the transformative moment of letting go, facing one’s sins, shame, and rage, and entrusting them to a higher power. This artwork speaks to the profound spiritual relief and redemption found in faith, encouraging viewers to embrace the liberation that comes from surrendering their deepest burdens to Christ.

Lay It All down At The Cross
Acrylic
12 x 16
$127

Exhibition Summary for “Rage” “Sanctuary” and “Lay It Down At The Cross”  1. Rage: Recognizing One’s Rage Helps Pinpoint the Sadness Within In this evocative painting, the intense colors and dynamic brushstrokes convey the raw power of rage. The artist masterfully captures the chaos and intensity of this emotion, revealing how rage often serves as a mask for deeper sadness. By recognizing and acknowledging their rage, viewers are invited to delve deeper into their emotions, pinpointing the underlying sorrow that fuels such intense feelings. The work encourages a journey of self-discovery and emotional healing, urging viewers to confront and understand the true sources of their anger.  2. Sanctuary: By Tapping into the Child Within to Comfort and Redeem, What Was Once Your Prison of Trauma Can Become One’s Sanctuary This serene and introspective piece depicts a tranquil, safe space where the inner child is nurtured and healed. Soft, soothing colors and gentle, protective imagery create a sense of calm and safety. The painting illustrates the transformative power of self-compassion and healing, suggesting that by reconnecting with and comforting the inner child, one can turn a past filled with trauma into a place of refuge and peace. It serves as a reminder that healing is possible, and that one’s sanctuary can be found within, transforming past pains into a source of strength and solace.  3. Lay It Down at the Cross: The Realization that Letting Go and Facing Thyself by Laying All Sins, Shame, and Rage Down Onto a Higher Power Jesus Christ Voluntarily Died Just for This This powerful and spiritually charged painting features a symbolic cross bathed in light, representing the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The composition conveys a sense of surrender and release, as figures are depicted laying down their burdens at the foot of the cross. The use of light and shadow highlights the transformative moment of letting go, facing one’s sins, shame, and rage, and entrusting them to a higher power. This artwork speaks to the profound spiritual relief and redemption found in faith, encouraging viewers to embrace the liberation that comes from surrendering their deepest burdens to Christ.

Sanctuary
Acrylic
12 x 16
$127

Exhibition Summary for “Rage” “Sanctuary” and “Lay It Down At The Cross”  1. Rage: Recognizing One’s Rage Helps Pinpoint the Sadness Within In this evocative painting, the intense colors and dynamic brushstrokes convey the raw power of rage. The artist masterfully captures the chaos and intensity of this emotion, revealing how rage often serves as a mask for deeper sadness. By recognizing and acknowledging their rage, viewers are invited to delve deeper into their emotions, pinpointing the underlying sorrow that fuels such intense feelings. The work encourages a journey of self-discovery and emotional healing, urging viewers to confront and understand the true sources of their anger.  2. Sanctuary: By Tapping into the Child Within to Comfort and Redeem, What Was Once Your Prison of Trauma Can Become One’s Sanctuary This serene and introspective piece depicts a tranquil, safe space where the inner child is nurtured and healed. Soft, soothing colors and gentle, protective imagery create a sense of calm and safety. The painting illustrates the transformative power of self-compassion and healing, suggesting that by reconnecting with and comforting the inner child, one can turn a past filled with trauma into a place of refuge and peace. It serves as a reminder that healing is possible, and that one’s sanctuary can be found within, transforming past pains into a source of strength and solace.  3. Lay It Down at the Cross: The Realization that Letting Go and Facing Thyself by Laying All Sins, Shame, and Rage Down Onto a Higher Power Jesus Christ Voluntarily Died Just for This This powerful and spiritually charged painting features a symbolic cross bathed in light, representing the sacrifice of Jesus Christ. The composition conveys a sense of surrender and release, as figures are depicted laying down their burdens at the foot of the cross. The use of light and shadow highlights the transformative moment of letting go, facing one’s sins, shame, and rage, and entrusting them to a higher power. This artwork speaks to the profound spiritual relief and redemption found in faith, encouraging viewers to embrace the liberation that comes from surrendering their deepest burdens to Christ.

Octopus & Saguaro at McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Scottsdale, AZ
Digital photo
10 x 12 framed
$50

All proceeds will be donated to Your Art Your Story
See this in person at the Mood Room.

I’m a retired patent attorney and have liked photography since buying my first film camera at age 10. Nowadays I use an iPhone 14 Pro when venturing into the world to capture beautiful images to share with others. I particularly enjoy hiking Phoenix trails at sundown, trying to photograph another of Arizona’s spectacular sunsets.

Three Skiffs at Kuressaare, Estonia
Digital photo
10 x 12 framed
$50

All proceeds will be donated to Your Art Your Story
See this in person at the Mood Room.

I’m a retired patent attorney and have liked photography since buying my first film camera at age 10. Nowadays I use an iPhone 14 Pro when venturing into the world to capture beautiful images to share with others. I particularly enjoy hiking Phoenix trails at sundown, trying to photograph another of Arizona’s spectacular sunsets.

Sunset at Lookout Mountain Park, Phoenix, AZ
Digital photo
10 x 12 framed
$50

All proceeds will be donated to Your Art Your Story
See this in person at the Mood Room.

I’m a retired patent attorney and have liked photography since buying my first film camera at age 10. Nowadays I use an iPhone 14 Pro when venturing into the world to capture beautiful images to share with others. I particularly enjoy hiking Phoenix trails at sundown, trying to photograph another of Arizona’s spectacular sunsets.

Dysmorphia
24×30
mixed media

The Grief We Cannot Share
mixed media
30×40
NFS

Examination of Underwater Sea Life, Part 1
Pen and ink
8×10
NFS

See this in person at the Mood Room.

Still Life with Pears
Pen and ink with watercolor
8.5 x 7.5 inches
NFS

See this in person at the Mood Room.

Still Life
Watercolor
14 x 11 inches 14 x 11 inches
NFS

See this in person at the Mood Room.

Ancient Houses, Saint Flour, France
Digital photo
10 x 12 framed
$50

All proceeds will be donated to Your Art Your Story
See this in person at the Mood Room.

Dr. Richard Carter, a retired forensic psychiatrist, enjoys bicycle touring in many countries. He finds meaning in making new friends and in capturing and sharing images of his travels, especially of nature and architecture.

Canal Reflections near Strasbourg, France
Digital photo
10 x 12 framed
$50

All proceeds will be donated to Your Art Your Story
See this in person at the Mood Room.

Dr. Richard Carter, a retired forensic psychiatrist, enjoys bicycle touring in many countries. He finds meaning in making new friends and in capturing and sharing images of his travels, especially of nature and architecture.

Urban Pathway, La Reole, France
Digital photo
10 x 12 framed
$50

All proceeds will be donated to Your Art Your Story
See this in person at the Mood Room.

Dr. Richard Carter, a retired forensic psychiatrist, enjoys bicycle touring in many countries. He finds meaning in making new friends and in capturing and sharing images of his travels, especially of nature and architecture.

Blue No 9,
objects and items, oils, pastels, crayons and acrylic/ watercolor
11×14
$150.

The Artist tasks a retrospective reinforced by the verbal remains of the image.  Identifying these elements, they are seen afresh with expanded expressions of color and patterns.  It is not gender nor identity.  The complicated issues still matter, leaving visible traces of contemporary art and mixed media design.

Art stalker / Art critic ( no.8)
oils, pastels, crayons and acrylic/ watercolor
11×14
$150.

The Artist tasks a retrospective reinforced by the verbal remains of the image.  Identifying these elements, they are seen afresh with expanded expressions of color and patterns.  It is not gender nor identity.  The complicated issues still matter, leaving visible traces of contemporary art and mixed media design.

Hollywood  Jo Jo ( no.11)
oils, pastels, crayons and acrylic/ watercolor
11×14
$150.

The Artist tasks a retrospective reinforced by the verbal remains of the image.  Identifying these elements, they are seen afresh with expanded expressions of color and patterns.  It is not gender nor identity.  The complicated issues still matter, leaving visible traces of contemporary art and mixed media design.

My poem relates to my Grandfather who committed suicide before I was born. No one tells me why and maybe they do not know why.

We Never Met
We never met and you were a name,
What was your story so deep—
Your tale of dark shadows before I was born,
all I can do is mourn.
Before I walked on this earth
Years before my birth,
A distant echo, a whispered page
In the book of memories we would have made.
In dreams I wonder about your days,
what made you sad or made you glow,
A heart ensnared in life’s cruel maze,
A burdened soul that I would never know.
I never knew your voice,
Your absence paints my sky,
A question in the years gone by
Of reasons why you left without reply.

From the Fire Grows II
Acrylic on Wood
30 x 30
$1200.

You can see this in person at the Mood Room

Kristine has been creating art since kindergarten when her teacher told her mom she really had some promising art talent. Throughout grade school Kris hung out with a group of retired women at the local community center so she could participate in the arts and crafts as much as possible.

​She has been defined as a painter, a sculptor, and a ceramist, but no single word can describe this multifaceted artist. Her art reveals an eclectic blend of styles, techniques and mediums purposefully chosen to best express the art at hand.

​“Artistic expression is therapeutic. I hear my own voice most clearly through paint, collage, texture and words hidden deep in the layers.

From the Fire Grows I
Acrylic on Wood
30 x 30
$1200.

You can see this in person at the Mood Room

Kristine has been creating art since kindergarten when her teacher told her mom she really had some promising art talent. Throughout grade school Kris hung out with a group of retired women at the local community center so she could participate in the arts and crafts as much as possible.

​She has been defined as a painter, a sculptor, and a ceramist, but no single word can describe this multifaceted artist. Her art reveals an eclectic blend of styles, techniques and mediums purposefully chosen to best express the art at hand.

​“Artistic expression is therapeutic. I hear my own voice most clearly through paint, collage, texture and words hidden deep in the layers.

Mandala 1
pastel, colored pencil, graphite, Irish Linen thread on paper
14 x 14
$300.

Growing up as the daughter of a first-generation Irish American, I was immersed in a world that seamlessly intertwined the visible and the invisible, where the concept of soul was as tangible as that of the body. My work has been a journey where the ethereal becomes palpable, and the connections between souls are unveiled.

My artistic journey has been a continuous exploration of themes such as self-love, voice, grief, and love. Along this path, I delve into the profound realms of Solitude and Silence: The Place where the Soul Speaks. Through art I navigate the internal landscape, capturing the essence of oneself and the mysterious dimensions within.

Tess Mosko Scherer resides in Phoenix, Arizona with dual citizenship in the US and Ireland, her over 40-year career spans the for-profit and non-profit sectors. As a gallerist, artist, advocate, author, and coach, she has dedicated herself to unraveling the transformative power of art. Currently serving as the Director of the Arizona Art Alliance, she has received numerous grants for projects supporting US Veterans, and individuals touched by trauma and suicide. Her artwork has won numerous awards, is represented by Van Gogh’s Ear Gallery, Prescott, Arizona and has been exhibited across the United States and collected internationally.

Mandala II
pastel, colored pencil, graphite, Irish Linen thread on paper
14 x 14
$300.

Growing up as the daughter of a first-generation Irish American, I was immersed in a world that seamlessly intertwined the visible and the invisible, where the concept of soul was as tangible as that of the body. My work has been a journey where the ethereal becomes palpable, and the connections between souls are unveiled.

My artistic journey has been a continuous exploration of themes such as self-love, voice, grief, and love. Along this path, I delve into the profound realms of Solitude and Silence: The Place where the Soul Speaks. Through art I navigate the internal landscape, capturing the essence of oneself and the mysterious dimensions within.

Tess Mosko Scherer resides in Phoenix, Arizona with dual citizenship in the US and Ireland, her over 40-year career spans the for-profit and non-profit sectors. As a gallerist, artist, advocate, author, and coach, she has dedicated herself to unraveling the transformative power of art. Currently serving as the Director of the Arizona Art Alliance, she has received numerous grants for projects supporting US Veterans, and individuals touched by trauma and suicide. Her artwork has won numerous awards, is represented by Van Gogh’s Ear Gallery, Prescott, Arizona and has been exhibited across the United States and collected internationally.

Mandala III
pastel, colored pencil, graphite, Irish Linen thread on paper
14 x 14
$300.

Growing up as the daughter of a first-generation Irish American, I was immersed in a world that seamlessly intertwined the visible and the invisible, where the concept of soul was as tangible as that of the body. My work has been a journey where the ethereal becomes palpable, and the connections between souls are unveiled.

My artistic journey has been a continuous exploration of themes such as self-love, voice, grief, and love. Along this path, I delve into the profound realms of Solitude and Silence: The Place where the Soul Speaks. Through art I navigate the internal landscape, capturing the essence of oneself and the mysterious dimensions within.

Tess Mosko Scherer resides in Phoenix, Arizona with dual citizenship in the US and Ireland, her over 40-year career spans the for-profit and non-profit sectors. As a gallerist, artist, advocate, author, and coach, she has dedicated herself to unraveling the transformative power of art. Currently serving as the Director of the Arizona Art Alliance, she has received numerous grants for projects supporting US Veterans, and individuals touched by trauma and suicide. Her artwork has won numerous awards, is represented by Van Gogh’s Ear Gallery, Prescott, Arizona and has been exhibited across the United States and collected internationally.

She Remembered
pastel, colored pencil, graphite, Irish Linen thread on paper
16 x 20
$500.

She Remembered emerged after the reversal of Roe v Wade and reading articles highlighting the diversity of women’s responses to the event. Stunned by some women’s complacency, I found myself depressed despite the joy of my recent marriage. There is a dance in retaining independence while becoming an US.  The poem I wrote emerged from the convergence of these two events.

In the background, I inscribed the words, ‘We must not forget we must always remember’.  In the figure, I wrote with graphite this poem:

She forgot.
She forgot the power of her voice.
She forgot the power of her mind.
She forgot the power of her imagination.
She forgot the power of her choice.
Silently wrapped in the Chrysalis of Time
She wept the tears of one thousand hearts.
Patiently she waited for herself to remember.

To remember the power of her voice.
To remember the power of her mind.
To remember the power of her imagination.
To remember the power of her choice.
To Remember herself.

Growing up as the daughter of a first-generation Irish American, I was immersed in a world that seamlessly intertwined the visible and the invisible, where the concept of soul was as tangible as that of the body. My work has been a journey where the ethereal becomes palpable, and the connections between souls are unveiled.

My artistic journey has been a continuous exploration of themes such as self-love, voice, grief, and love. Along this path, I delve into the profound realms of Solitude and Silence: The Place where the Soul Speaks. Through art I navigate the internal landscape, capturing the essence of oneself and the mysterious dimensions within.

Tess Mosko Scherer resides in Phoenix, Arizona with dual citizenship in the US and Ireland, her over 40-year career spans the for-profit and non-profit sectors. As a gallerist, artist, advocate, author, and coach, she has dedicated herself to unraveling the transformative power of art. Currently serving as the Director of the Arizona Art Alliance, she has received numerous grants for projects supporting US Veterans, and individuals touched by trauma and suicide. Her artwork has won numerous awards, is represented by Van Gogh’s Ear Gallery, Prescott, Arizona and has been exhibited across the United States and collected internationally.

from the When Women Were Birds series
Vessel #18
ceramic
14 x 9 diameter
$350.

David has been a full time professor of Art at Paradise Valley Community College since 2004; Department Head of Ceramics responsible for instructional design, course development, schedule development, supervision of adjunct faculty in ceramics. He earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting from La. Tech University; Master of Fine Arts in Ceramics from University of North Texas. He is the recipient of many national and local awards in recognition for his teaching including the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development recognition 2017 & 2018. He has served on the board of several arts organizations including Arizona Clay Association (president) eye lounge (president) and is currently the Director of Community Outreach and Veterans Arts Programs at Arizona Artists Guild (since 2013). He has been the recipient of many grants and fellowships including Fullbright-Hayes Faculty Development Grant, Arizona Commission of the Arts, City of Phoenix and National Endowment for the Arts. Along with Dr. Caron Sada he received a Horizon Grant from Maricopa Community Colleges for a collaboration between psychology and Art. Bradley is a member in good standing in the National Council on Education in Ceramic Arts, College Art Association.

from the When Women Were Birds series
Vessel #17
ceramic
14 x 9 diameter
$350.

David has been a full time professor of Art at Paradise Valley Community College since 2004; Department Head of Ceramics responsible for instructional design, course development, schedule development, supervision of adjunct faculty in ceramics. He earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting from La. Tech University; Master of Fine Arts in Ceramics from University of North Texas. He is the recipient of many national and local awards in recognition for his teaching including the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development recognition 2017 & 2018. He has served on the board of several arts organizations including Arizona Clay Association (president) eye lounge (president) and is currently the Director of Community Outreach and Veterans Arts Programs at Arizona Artists Guild (since 2013). He has been the recipient of many grants and fellowships including Fullbright-Hayes Faculty Development Grant, Arizona Commission of the Arts, City of Phoenix and National Endowment for the Arts. Along with Dr. Caron Sada he received a Horizon Grant from Maricopa Community Colleges for a collaboration between psychology and Art. Bradley is a member in good standing in the National Council on Education in Ceramic Arts, College Art Association.

from the When Women Were Birds series
Vessel
ceramic
14 x 9 diameter
$350.

David has been a full time professor of Art at Paradise Valley Community College since 2004; Department Head of Ceramics responsible for instructional design, course development, schedule development, supervision of adjunct faculty in ceramics. He earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting from La. Tech University; Master of Fine Arts in Ceramics from University of North Texas. He is the recipient of many national and local awards in recognition for his teaching including the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development recognition 2017 & 2018. He has served on the board of several arts organizations including Arizona Clay Association (president) eye lounge (president) and is currently the Director of Community Outreach and Veterans Arts Programs at Arizona Artists Guild (since 2013). He has been the recipient of many grants and fellowships including Fullbright-Hayes Faculty Development Grant, Arizona Commission of the Arts, City of Phoenix and National Endowment for the Arts. Along with Dr. Caron Sada he received a Horizon Grant from Maricopa Community Colleges for a collaboration between psychology and Art. Bradley is a member in good standing in the National Council on Education in Ceramic Arts, College Art Association.

David Lloyd Bradley
The Gathering
scratchboard
11 x 14
$200.

David has been a full time professor of Art at Paradise Valley Community College since 2004; Department Head of Ceramics responsible for instructional design, course development, schedule development, supervision of adjunct faculty in ceramics. He earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Painting from La. Tech University; Master of Fine Arts in Ceramics from University of North Texas. He is the recipient of many national and local awards in recognition for his teaching including the National Institute for Staff and Organizational Development recognition 2017 & 2018. He has served on the board of several arts organizations including Arizona Clay Association (president) eye lounge (president) and is currently the Director of Community Outreach and Veterans Arts Programs at Arizona Artists Guild (since 2013). He has been the recipient of many grants and fellowships including Fullbright-Hayes Faculty Development Grant, Arizona Commission of the Arts, City of Phoenix and National Endowment for the Arts. Along with Dr. Caron Sada he received a Horizon Grant from Maricopa Community Colleges for a collaboration between psychology and Art. Bradley is a member in good standing in the National Council on Education in Ceramic Arts, College Art Association.

Spirit of the Appaloosa
acrylic and oil
22 x 28
NFS

Marvella Frey is a painter living in Phoenix, Arizona. Born and raised on the East coast, she has spent the past eighteen years living in the Southwest, in California and Arizona.

Her early art training included earning BA in Studio Art from the University of Maryland, specializing in oil painting and welding. After college, she spent fifteen years working in the travel industry which afforded her the opportunity to travel extensively internationally and visit some of the wonderous art sites and museums around the world. She returned to college, earning a Master’s degree from George Washington University in Washington, D.C. As a therapist, she incorporated her passion for art making and education in art therapy to work with adolescents in several states and earned several grants to develop art projects for working with youth to create community art.

Six years ago, Marvella focused on returning to painting and in 2020, she retired from the working world and is living her lifelong dream of being a fulltime artist. Marvella draws her inspiration to paint from the beauty and diversity of the natural world and the human spirit. She paints to evoke and communicate a feeling or mood, an emotional connection to people, places and animals in the world that we share.

She has exhibited and sold her artwork at The Herberger Theater Art Gallery, The Vision Gallery, The Mood Room, the Arizona Art Guild, the Arizona Art Alliance, WHAM Gallery, The Gammage Theater, Ground Floor Artists Gallery, Exposed Studio and Gallery and Desert Foothills Gallery in Cave Creek.

Dancing in the Desert
oil
12 x 24
NFS

Marvella Frey is a painter living in Phoenix, Arizona. Born and raised on the East coast, she has spent the past eighteen years living in the Southwest, in California and Arizona.

Her early art training included earning BA in Studio Art from the University of Maryland, specializing in oil painting and welding. After college, she spent fifteen years working in the travel industry which afforded her the opportunity to travel extensively internationally and visit some of the wonderous art sites and museums around the world. She returned to college, earning a Master’s degree from George Washington University in Washington, D.C. As a therapist, she incorporated her passion for art making and education in art therapy to work with adolescents in several states and earned several grants to develop art projects for working with youth to create community art.

Six years ago, Marvella focused on returning to painting and in 2020, she retired from the working world and is living her lifelong dream of being a fulltime artist. Marvella draws her inspiration to paint from the beauty and diversity of the natural world and the human spirit. She paints to evoke and communicate a feeling or mood, an emotional connection to people, places and animals in the world that we share.

She has exhibited and sold her artwork at The Herberger Theater Art Gallery, The Vision Gallery, The Mood Room, the Arizona Art Guild, the Arizona Art Alliance, WHAM Gallery, The Gammage Theater, Ground Floor Artists Gallery, Exposed Studio and Gallery and Desert Foothills Gallery in Cave Creek.