Content Note: This artwork addresses experiences of abuse and survival, which may be difficult for some viewers.

This painting tells the personal story of Danielle, a survivor of domestic and sexual abuse, and centers on healing, resilience, and the power of being heard.

For many years, social expectations around being a “good woman and mother” contributed to Danielle remaining in a harmful relationship. The lasting impact of this experience is symbolically represented through the imagery in the painting. Three circles radiate from within her, representing sound and inner voice. Her left hand is raised toward her ear, reflecting both hearing loss and a deeper longing for unheard experiences to be acknowledged. At the time, Danielle felt unable to communicate what she was going through and later came to understand that silence can allow harm to continue.

Danielle also experienced sexual abuse by individuals she trusted. The design connecting the three central circles incorporates a symbol of solidarity for survivors. During the reporting process, she encountered responses that felt unsupportive and questioning rather than compassionate, which made the experience especially difficult. Despite this, Danielle believes in the importance of sharing her story and hopes it encourages others to speak up, even when doing so feels challenging.

The dot in the center of her hand references the Black Dot Project, a symbol used to quietly signal being in an abusive relationship. In this painting, the dot is replaced by a red diamond, Danielle’s favorite color, representing empowerment, pride, and life beyond abuse.

The African-inspired patterns on Danielle’s hands and throughout the background symbolize strength, resilience, and the spirit of a female warrior, qualities she now embodies. Today, Danielle runs a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting women affected by abuse, particularly those living in shelters. While her experiences were deeply challenging, she has transformed them into a source of purpose, using her voice to support herself and others.