34 GALLERY ARTIST: MURIEL LHERM -- 6X WINNER
Empower4Her Winning SUBMISSION: "The Unbreakable Spirit"
"One of the most impactful experiences in my life was helping a close friend escape an abusive marriage. She had been trapped in a relationship with a man who was violent, manipulative, and struggling with addiction. Leaving was not easy. With support, she fought for her freedom, for her safety, and for a future where she could rebuild her life.
This experience changed me. It made me realize how many women are caught in similar cycles, afraid to leave because society does not always give them the tools or support to start over. It also showed me the immense strength it takes to break free, to reclaim identity, dignity, and self-worth after years of being told they are nothing. I want a future where no woman feels trapped in an unsafe home, a toxic relationship, or a life she does not choose. Where leaving does not mean facing poverty, legal battles, or social stigma alone.
I hope for a world where women no longer feel like prisoners in their own lives and have access to immediate, effective support when they need it. Survivors of abuse are protected, not doubted or blamed, and where justice systems prioritize their safety. By 2025 and beyond, I hope we will live in a world where women are never forced to stay in places that destroy them, where freedom, dignity, and empowerment are not privileges, but rights."
"Adoration" Winning SUBMISSION: "Butterflies of Care"
"This artwork features two figures in an ethereal setting surrounded by butterflies. It speaks to themes of protection, care, and the transformative power of love, celebrating the bonds that sustain and heal us."
"Utopia" winning SUBMISSION: "Eternal Harmony"
"My artwork, 'Ethereal Harmony,' is a manifestation of my vision of a utopia where humanity and nature coexist in perfect peace. The creation process was deeply meditative, involving layers of intricate details and vibrant colors that reflect serenity and joy. Each element, from the glowing moon to the delicate flora, represents the hope for a better world—a place where connection and harmony thrive. This piece symbolizes the transformative power of imagination, offering viewers a moment of calm and inspiration to carry forward in their own journeys.
"Remembrance" Winning SUBMISSION: "Eternal Radiance"
"Losing my childhood friend and milk sister to breast cancer at 35 felt profoundly unjust, leaving me with an enduring struggle to reconcile her absence. This grief deeply impacted me, as I grappled with both sorrow and the unfairness of her passing. In contrast, my grandfather's death was more bearable; sharing his stories with my children kept his memory alive, grounding me with the comfort of his full, meaningful life. Through art and shared memories, I’ve found ways to honor both, transforming loss into enduring connections that bring solace and understanding."
"Portraits of Self" 2024 SUBMISSION: "Reflections of REsilience"
"'"Reflections of Resilience' is a visual narrative that intertwines iconic landmarks with the silhouette of a contemplative figure, symbolizing the interconnectedness of our environment and self-perception. The blurred and fluid transitions between the Eiffel Tower, Big Ben, and the figure illustrate the fluidity of identity and the ongoing journey towards self-acceptance.
This piece emphasizes the importance of seeing oneself through a lens of positivity and strength, despite societal pressures and expectations. By portraying a serene and introspective moment, the artwork encourages viewers to appreciate their unique beauty and to foster a healthy self-image. The calm and reflective tones in the composition aim to evoke a sense of peace and self-assurance, inspiring others to embrace their individuality with confidence."
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