March is Women’s History Month. Nurturing artistic expression with an emphasis on women in history was the focus on a recent creative arts program at the Wiener Academy for Young Women at the WJCS Mary J. Blige Center in Yonkers. Westchester artist Hilary Blackman engaged participants in an inter-disciplinary art project that included discussions about inspirational Sheroes, including mothers and grandmothers, that overcame great odds. They also talked about their favorite female performers, politicians, activists, and professional women who accomplished “first female ever milestones.” These conversations prompted ideas about the value of identifying personal strengths, building self-confidence, and determination to achieve one’s goals.
Artwork dedicated to these themes was developed in three stages, using photo collage, bold colors, and the placement of three circular wooden shapes. The circle is symbolic of life, self, and wholeness in many cultures. The uniqueness of each piece embodies the success of the project, giving tribute to a rich legacy of women past, present, and future. The showcasing of this exhibit affirms our pride and confidence support of our Young women. They are indeed Rising Stars
Thank you to Phillip Menzies, Director of WJCS Youth Services. Tamara Robinson, WJCS Program Specialist, Sharisse Ramos, WJCS Program Specialist, Ebony Carelock, Program Director of the WJCS Wiener Academy for Young Women, and artist Hilary Blackman for making this program such a success.
