My name is Teresa Lawrence, and this is an art project that I began with my friend. He has been through much abuse and this is a way for him to heal. I create images based on memories he has of the events and he writes a description to go along with the piece. Through this we are able to raise awareness about abuse and turn a feeling of powerlessness into something powerful. These images are dark and can be potentially triggering.
Shame of Surviving
“I was forced to cooperate and even to enjoy my abuse. I would feel ashamed of what I had done and I would hate myself. Afterwards, I would hide my head in my hands and attempt to disappear. Therapists have told me that I only did what I had to in order to survive. To me this is another form of survivor’s guilt.”
Silent Threat
“This gesture, my father’s hand on the back of my neck, was a silent threat used when someone would ask me how I’m feeling or comment that I looked hurt. He would gently place his hand on my neck and slightly squeeze with his fingertips. Occasionally he would assist me with the answer I should give, starting my sentences, providing me with the excuse. Trapping and controlling me, like a puppet. It was mistaken as a caring gesture by the people around, they thought he was attempting to comfort me.”
Too Heavy for Superman to Lift
“My abuse included punishment of bondage and beatings. This image was from a picture taken after I was dragged from my bed and tied to a pole in the basement. The beating would last a while and could sometimes end up being worse the longer I resisted. Often I was forced to stay still and completely submit to the beating.”
