A group of artists in Winnipeg, Manitoba, is taking a close look at human dignity through their art.
The artists, including Gerald Folkerts, a member of Covenant Christian Reformed Church, came together to present The Invisible Dignity Project (www.invisibledignity.org).
It is, as Folkerts explained, “a series of events highlighting through art, music, and dialogue the oppressed dignity of people who are made invisible in our communities.”
Dignity is not invisible because it’s missing in some folks, Folkerts said, but because we are too often blind to the inherent dignity that resides in each one of us.
“It was wonderful to see how the project was supported by a variety of church communities, individuals, local businesses, schools [public and Christian]—indeed, it seemed as if God were smiling down on our project and opening doors left, right, and center,” Folkerts said.
Art included works by five local artists and events included presenters such as Cal Seerveld, who spoke about “Turning Human Dignity Upside Down”; singer/songwriter Steve Bell; and 11-year-old Hannah Taylor, founder of The Ladybug Foundation, which helps fight homelessness.
The artists’ events—including the art exhibit called “Unveiling the Mystery”—drew hundreds of people from Sept. 22 to 29, 2007, and the artists will continue holding events into February 2008.
“My hope for the Invisible Dignity Project is to inspire positive and hopeful goals that encompass all the diversity of culture and race, poverty and difference. Artists can help us envision, believe, and work for more holistic and inclusive communities,” said Folkerts.
