NEWS RELEASE
GREEN HAVEN SHELTER FOR WOMEN
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In collaboration with the Orillia Museum of Art and History (OMAH), the Green Haven Shelter for Women team will be welcoming Orillians to join them in a day of self-love and celebrating the colours of women.
On March 7 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the community is invited to embrace their artistic side and take part in a day of women’s empowerment at the museum.
“International Women’s Day is a day to honour the women in our community. The Colours of Women event is an opportunity to bring women together to share their love for themselves and to empower others in Orillia. We stand stronger with powerful and resilient women beside us,” said Norma Alford, executive director of Green Haven Shelter for Women.
Admire the incredible work currently displayed at OMAH by artist Amanta Scott celebrating visionary women from around the world. Let the inspiration from the exhibit flow through you and pick up the pen yourself to colour or draw images of the women with whom you resonate.
“Eyeing Medusa, Amanta Scott’s solo exhibition, held in the Mulcahy Family Gallery will serve as a powerful backdrop to the Colours of Women event. Since the museum’s mission is to provide inclusive space to engage community, inspire creativity, and celebrate culture, by exploring art and history, we think this event is a perfect fit with ample opportunity to discuss issues that are rooted in history and still powerfully present,” said Ninette Gyorody, executive director of the Orillia Museum of Art and History.
The community is encouraged to embrace their artistic side while honouring women from all walks of life. Visitors can choose a page from the inclusive colouring sheets that they feel a connection to and their finished work will be on display at the museum.
Women are also invited to take a moment to reflect on what they love most about themselves by filling out one of the self-love hearts. Prompts include: I am _____, I can _____, I will _____, I love my _____, I deserve _____, I have _____.
“The Orillia Museum of Art and History is honoured to partner with Green Haven Shelter for Women to host this special event that will lead to and coincide with International Women’s Day. We look forward to simultaneously embracing the achievements of all women while bringing attention to issues such as gender equity and inclusivity and violence against women,” said Gyorody.
Green Haven will be supplying colouring pages, art supplies, and self-love hearts. This event is free, with a recommended donation of $5 to participate in the activities. Any donations made to the event will be evenly divided between the Orillia Museum of Art and History and Green Haven Shelter for Women.
“It is incredibly important for survivors of violence and abuse to see themselves represented in the community and to see support from local organizations such as OMAH. We are grateful for the opportunity to share this space and honour the women in our community. As local businesses and organizations stand united against gender-based violence, we hope to see survivors gaining strength and learning about the safe spaces that exist for them in Orillia,” said Alford.
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