Personal Project

Press Release: 

It began as a fundraising idea: hold a silent auction with abstract images of the cast of the Vagina Monologues in the nude.  But it ended in an experience that has changed the lives of the women involved.  A woman's body image is dramatically affected by societal pressures. With images of Barbie, Super Models and celebrities, women and girls are told what is an acceptable body.  Furthermore, sexual assault can destroy a women's positive view of her body.   Empowerment will be the first phase of a photography project about sexual assault survivors.  Local photographers Julie Afflerbaugh and Peggy Dyer will be leading the project, with the guidance of Moving to End Sexual Assault's (MESA) Development Director, Deirdre Moynihan. 

" The photoshoot was one of the best experiences I've had when it comes to self expression. It put me in an unshakable mood for days...hell, I'm still smiling about it.  It's something I'll never forget because it gave me an opportunity to show myself some love and acknowledge how amazing this body and mind are."

" I know you've heard this tons today, but this was probably one of the biggest transformations of my life! I really feel liberated by the experience, and I hope that the image I chose will help others feel the same way."

To preview the Empowerment Exhibit, you can attend the benefit production of the The Vagina Monologues at the Boulder Theater on Wednesday, April 2 at 8pm.