COLUMBUS — The Ohio Attorney General’s Office recently hosted the 33rd annual Two Days in May Conference on Victim Assistance, drawing victim advocates, nonprofit organizations and lawmakers to downtown Columbus to collaborate on strategies to better support domestic violence survivors across the state.
A standout feature of the conference was an exhibit from The Domestic Violence Shelter Inc. in Richland County.
The display featured seven easels showcasing artwork and poetry created by teenagers and domestic violence survivors. The multimedia exhibit aimed to raise awareness about teen dating violence, domestic violence and sexual assault, while emphasizing resilience and the path to recovery.
Among the artists was Avigayle Miller, a freshman at Lucas High School, who contributed a piece titled Set Free to the shelter’s Expressions: Teen Dating Violence Awareness Art & Poetry Contest.
Seeing her artwork displayed at the statewide conference left a lasting impression on Miller.
“It is nice to feel like I am putting out awareness of such a sensitive subject and letting people be more open to hearing about it and seeing it in different forms, like art,” Miller said.
Her piece used light and dark contrasts to illustrate the complexities of domestic violence and the hope that comes with healing.
“There’s always stuff dragging you down, and even though you see the good things about something or a person, the bad things don’t change. The orb represents letting go and being free,” she said.
The conference offered a variety of workshops designed to improve services for survivors and prevent future abuse. This year’s inclusion of The Domestic Violence Shelter’s exhibit highlighted how art can serve as both an educational tool and a powerful voice for survivors.
“Art shows everyone’s different perspectives of life,” said Colleen Rice, executive director of The Domestic Violence Shelter. “We hope this exhibit will resonate with attendees and inspire them as they take what they’ve learned back to their communities.”
The Domestic Violence Shelter continues its mission to support survivors, raise awareness and promote understanding across Richland County and beyond. The organization provides shelter, advocacy and education to help individuals overcome trauma and build safer futures.
For media inquiries, contact Colleen Rice at 419-774-5843, ext. 101, or crice@thedvshelter.com.
The exhibit can be viewed online at https://thedvshelter.my.canva.site/twodaysinmay.