Wynwood Art Fest. & Local Shelter Team Up For Good Cause
MIAMI (CBS4)- A shelter and sanctuary for women flourishes with art in the middle of Overtown.
"Lotus House kind of gave me a second chance," resident, Ebony Dennis shared with CBS4's Nicole Maristany, adding, "I have become better with my children, and I guess the art side that I didn't know I had is coming out of me."
Women trying to come out of all kinds of abusive situations receive counseling, support and community at Lotus House, but the opportunities to be creative alongside artists gives them an outlet – and and opportunity to grow.
"I think you establish a bond right away, and it's a creativity bond," explains Ellen Fisher, a performance artist who volunteers her time to work with the women of Lotus House. "I can't really think of any other kind of holistic approach to caring for women," said Fisher.
This weekend, the spirit of the Lotus House and the art created there will fill the streets of the Wynwood Art Festival, giving the community a chance to come together for a cause.
"As we explore every form of artistic medium, we lift up those in need," explained Constance Collins Margulies, the founder of the Lotus House.
Artists from all over participate at this non-profit, interactive art fair.
"All the ticket proceeds will benefit the shelter, many of the exhibitors are donating proceeds to the shelter," said Margulies.
Those donations help ensure the women living at Lotus House have a chance at a new life.
As one resident, who wished to remain anonymous, described what it's like to reflect back on her time at the shelter as she now prepares to move on, "It changed my life tremendously, I'm going to be able to go out into the world," she said. "I'm going to know how to cope with all my problems, I'm going to be responsible, I have my own place, I have a job."
You can visit the Wynwood Art Festival Friday, October 21, 2011 through Sunday, October 23rd. For ticket information, visit, http://www.wynwoodartfair.org/html/purchase_tickets.html .
