The calendar, endorsed by The National Sexual Violence Resource Center (a CDC agency) and The National Association of Social Workers - Maine Chapter (see Further Points of interest), features the art of assault/abuse survivors accompanied by a journal-style story of recovery. The artists include Wanda Washington of Pennsylvania whose work has appeared on Lifetime, and Sue Willey and Larry Paine of Maine whose works are part of The Art Inside (an ongoing exhibit of survivors' art handled by SACS Ctr.). The overall effect of the collection is one of hope, and the creators hope the effect is contagious.
Even though the calendar is designed and produced with sexual violence in mind, its format speaks to anyone who has experienced trauma. Trauma happens in many forms and in varying degrees of severity, yet survivors of traumatic experiences may often endure similar effects. The art and writings in the calendar can have a positive impact on anyone because everyone has experienced some kind of trauma in her/his life or knows and loves someone who has.
Timed well in a year with an increase in media coverage of the issue of sexual violence, the calendar is a positive resource during a painful time. While this issue sheds necessary light on sexual assault/abuse, the aftermath of and recovery from such attention can be emotionally challenging.
The calendar conveys the message that there is something to be gained by sharing and receiving strength from survivors of this form of abuse. The profound, uplifting messages found in the artwork validate and acknowledge that the transformation from victim to survivor is possible, even after what seems to be irreparable damage to mind, body, and soul. Soul Chain: A Survivors' Story --inspiration that resonates with a certain clarity, making it as much a resource as it is an art calendar.
