The Portrait Project Book

More than a collection of art and poetry, "The Portrait Project" highlights the inspiring resilience and courage of trauma survivors in the form of contemporary oil paintings, accompanying stories and powerful poetry.

All proceeds go towards supporting The Aplomb Project's mission.

Download the e-book with a donation of $1, $5 or $10 or purchase the hard copy on lulu.com.

A powerful and inspiring collection

Paintings and design by Danielle Festa. Contributions by Susanne Preble, Crystal Franklin, Jim Upton, Jenn Redding, Samantha McCoy, Lauren Gill, Nubia Wilson, Britney Lane, Aleka Munroe, Jai Mitchell, Spiridoula Politis, PSG Lopes, Lisa Breger, Cindy Snow, and Dana Campbell. Edited by Sarah Brown.

Introduction

In 2020 my cousin Sue came to me with the truth of her childhood sexual assault. What came as a tsunami of painful information was a release of stored trauma for her. She finally allowed herself to accept support, gain confidence, and offload the weight of this secret. I asked if I could paint this transformation I saw. It was cathartic for me to throw down ink like Jackson Pollock for the background and to embroider the gold and white threads that represent her strength. I could not have predicted, but this opened up a new chapter in my life - I began painting old friends and making new ones while painting their stories of resilience. This has since developed into a 501(c)(3) organization, The Aplomb Project.

Collaboration is my priority from the start. I ensure that everything from the reference painting, the pose, the outfit, the colors, photoshoot location and even the music I listen to while I paint, is the survivor's choice. It means the world to me that each one of them trusts me with their story and I take that responsibility seriously.

Not only do the survivors get their paintings, but they also become part of a supportive community. This book features survivors with inspiring stories of resilience, and empowering trauma-themed poetry. The stories are purposefully written without graphic details, but please take your time and be sure you are in a place to receive them. If you or someone you know has experienced trauma and are looking for support, please see a list of some reputable organizations available to help at theaplombproject.org/resources.

Danielle Festa
Executive Director and Artist

aplomb
[ uh-plom, uh-pluhm ]
noun
self-confidence, self-assurance and poise; especially under the most trying circumstances.

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