WHO: Sharon Horton, Artist

WHAT: Closing Reception for Surviving – Becoming – Letting Go: An Incest Survivor’s Journey (drawings, painting, video documentation, sculpture and mixed media artwork)

WHERE: Images Gallery, 1823 West Wilson, Chicago

WHEN: Thursday, January 5, 2006
6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

SUMMARY: Sharon Horton, a 38-year-old incest survivor, exhibits original drawings, paintings and sculpture created during ten years of art therapy as a consumer at Community Counseling Centers of Chicago (C4). After learning this past spring that her breast cancer is terminal, Sharon organized the exhibit as a gift to others recovering from sexual abuse. Sharon believes that an exhibition of her artwork about her abuse, recovery and cancer struggles will benefit those with similar experiences, creating a legacy of hope and healing.

Observes Sharon “Art became my voice; I was silent for so long. If I can prevent one child from being abused, then my life will have had meaning.”

Founded in 1972, Community Counseling Centers of Chicago (C4) provides a full range of outpatient behavioral health services, including substance abuse treatment and specialized services for survivors of sexual violence. Each year, the agency reaches more than 7,000 persons at eight facilities throughout Chicago. C4’s services are targeted to those living at or below the poverty level.

Note: Gallery is also open for viewing Saturday, December 31st and Sunday, January 1st from 10 am to 3 p.m.

To schedule an interview with Sharon, contact: Marta A. Bailey at 773.765.0809.