Lost Love: A Journey of Resilience

A Widows Storytelling Exhibit

The exhibition will focus on the narratives of black women who have lost their spouses, many before the age of 40. Through photography and interviews, it will showcase the unique love stories of these women, the events leading to their widowhood, and their life paths since that pivotal moment. 

The aim is to immerse visitors in a sensory-rich experience, delving into themes of resilience, grief, new beginnings, strength, and perseverance. Attendees will listen to the women's stories, contemplate their own encounters with grief, and ponder resilience as a remarkable quality. 

This exhibit aims to shed light on the journey of widows, highlighting the complexities of widowhood. Young black widows worldwide hold the memories of their loved ones and their own stories. Their victories, endurance, resilience, and strength deserve to be shared. 

Join Elle Davis, curator and 10-year widow for the Chicago debut of Love Lost: A Journey of Resilience. Ten years ago on April 16, 2014, Elle unexpectedly lost her husband Paul Davis. This year, she is flipping this date on it's head. What was once a day remembered for grief and loss is being reimagined to a day of triumph and testimony. Elle and six other widows will be featured in this jaw-dropping exhibit, sharing with the world how they navigated life after loss. You want to be there to feel the power of their words and witness their resilience in motion. This exhibit is for everyone, so bring the whole family out to learn about the experiences of a few young, black widows. The exhibit is a mixed-media depiction.

*To learn more about Elle Davis, visit: www.elledavisspeaks.com

About the venue: FLYPAPER Gallery is owned by award winning photographer, Clifton Henri, and is is a space that celebrates Works-on-Paper that delve into the depths of human experience both in visual and literary forms.

PROGRAMMING...*click here to RSVP for any of the sessions below

Thursday, April 25, 2024 - Grief Support Group

Join a compassionate and understanding group where you can openly share your feelings, experiences, and challenges related to grief. Facilitated by trained professionals, this supportive space offers validation, empathy, and practical coping strategies to help you navigate your grief journey.

Thursday, May 2, 2024 - Journal your Grief

Discover the therapeutic power of journaling as a tool for self-expression and healing. Guided by prompts and reflective exercises, this group provides a safe and creative outlet for processing emotions, exploring memories, and finding clarity and insight during your grief process.

Thursday, May 9, 2024 - Floral Design

Channel your emotions into a creative and uplifting floral design class. Learn the art of arranging flowers as a symbolic and tangible way to honor your loved one, express your emotions, and find moments of beauty and peace amidst grief.

*Activations occur from 6:00-7:00 PM and viewing hours will be from 7:00 - 9:00 PM

EXHIBIT CLOSING RECEPTION: 

Saturday, May 18, 2024 | 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM *click here to RSVP

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES:

We have sponsorship opportunities available! Please click here to view the sponsorship deck. You can support monetarily or through in-kind goods or services. Please contact us at widowstories@gmail.com to finalize your sponsorship level.