A Night of Healing and Expression: Reflections on the "Express Yourself" Artist Showcase

As an organizer of the **Express Yourself Artist Showcase**, I am still buzzing with the energy and inspiration that filled the Mitchel Community Center on December 16, 2022. This event, a collaboration between Darkness RISING, East Side House Settlement, and Women Beyond Measures, with generous support from the Laurie M. Tisch Illumination Fund, was not just another gathering; it was a heartfelt celebration of creativity and community, centered on the vital themes of mental health and self-care.

Creating a Safe and Welcoming Space

From the moment we began setting up, we aimed to create a space where individuals felt safe to express themselves openly and authentically. We wanted to foster an atmosphere where everyone—performers and attendees alike—could leave behind the weight of the world and embrace their true selves. The warmth and enthusiasm that greeted us as participants began to arrive reaffirmed our mission. It was evident that people were eager to connect, share, and support one another.

The **Express Yourself Artist Showcase** served as a continuation of the Darkness RISING: Live Tour, which emphasizes the transformative power of art in healing and self-expression. We believe that creativity can serve as a lifeline, and we wanted our event to reflect that belief.

A Celebration of Voices

As the night unfolded, we were blessed with a diverse array of performances that showcased the depth of talent within our community. Each artist took the stage with courage, sharing their unique stories through songs, poetry, and spoken word. The authenticity of these performances was profoundly moving, and I found myself captivated by the raw emotion and vulnerability on display.

One of the highlights for me was witnessing a young poet share her struggles with mental health. Her words resonated with many in the audience, creating a shared understanding of the challenges we face. Another performer delivered a powerful song that echoed themes of resilience and strength, leaving us all inspired. These moments reminded us of the importance of storytelling and how our narratives can connect us in unexpected and healing ways.

 Building Community Through Self-Care

In addition to the artistic showcase, we also wanted to emphasize the importance of self-care. Throughout the evening, we encouraged attendees to engage in conversations about mental health, share their experiences, and support one another. The interactions I witnessed were heartwarming—people connecting over shared struggles, offering advice, and forming new friendships.