October is National Domestic Violence Awareness month, a 31 day campaign to support the individual stories, experiences and personalities affected by domestic abuse.

Every victim of domestic abuse is different and, similarly, this diversity calls for a variety of outlets and mediums to show support and rally prevention awareness.

As a visual medium, artistic expression calls unique attention to this cause, which is why local sculptor mi Chelle Vara uses visual art to inspire positive action as part of Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Vara created 8 sculptural pieces, at her Ballard Road Art Studio Gallery in Wilton, to be shown in conjunction with the awareness campaign.

From Vara’s perspective, communication is vital for those directly and indirectly affected by domestic violence.

“The problem with domestic violence is the silence barrier. If it’s happening, even to someone close, no one wants to talk about it,” Vara said. “I create visual pieces that are dimensional; allowing a dialogue to open up through all people.”

The tragic death of friend Dawn Bovey Roberts, a local victim of extreme domestic violence, enlightened Vara about the need for open communication and support for those in danger.
Last year, Vara showed her support with two sculptures, and his year she’s added eight more with “bigger language.”

Through these pieces, Vara aims to capture the positive: how she has seen many people grow through domestic violence, using their experience as something positive to propel them to a new place as an individual. She works with iron and glass to convey how negative energy can be transformed into growth and enlightenment for the world around her.

Vara’s artwork demonstrates just one medium for expressing the relationship between violence and emotion. She highlights the power and inspiration surrounding those who conquer domestic abuse, and it is their encouraging stories that speak volumes about violence of all forms.

“Domestic violence and violence are not separate issues. Violence in society must be addressed, and addressed positively,” Vara said.

By capturing the good that comes from even the most negative situations, Vara’s sculptures embody the message that triumph over social violence can be inspiration for change.