Second Skin

NFS - available for rental/exhibition 48" x 30" x 30" (approx) Acrylic, spray paint on upcycled vinyl punching bag 2023 Art Direction & project management by: Tania LaCaria; mark-making contributed to by fellow survivors whose names are not included for privacy The Second Skin project was funded by Peter Van Dyck in support of Halton’s Women’s Group for the No Excuse For Women’s Abuse fashion fundraiser which took place at No Excuse Boxing (owned by women’s ally and supporter Ryan Ranelli) in Burlington, Ontario and (covered by Burlington Local News). The upcycled and repurposed punching bag features hand-painted markings left by participants who identify as women survivors of various forms of abuse including physical, sexual, emotional, financial, spiritual and cultural abuse. The colours palette was inspired by No Excuse Boxing's boxing glove grading colours. This art installation is intended to serve as a beacon of hope for women who are embarking on the beginning of their healing journey. The title Second Skin is reminiscent of the healing process that begins after a trauma - the shedding of old belief systems, the generation of new “skin” that forms over a wound that's made of scar tissue that comes back stronger and tougher than the skin that precedes it. The healing process after abuse is a long journey. It is messy, painful and difficult. It is a slow process, but it is possible. The women who contributed to this project (along with other survivors) are examples of strength. They were used by unwell, broken people as punching bags, but they have found a way to heal and are stronger than ever. The Second Skin project is a reminder that despite a painful history, the survivors who are lucky to still be here are stronger than ever. Read about Burlington's Local New's coverage of the Hope In Every Step walk in support of ending gender-based violence in which Tania LaCaria shared words about what this project meant to her and her experience as a survivor, as she shared the stage alongside brave participants and fellow survivors. this More about this project: Second Skin belongs to project funder, Peter Van Dyck, and is available for rental and exhibition in support of ending gender-based violence. To inquire about exhibition and rental opportunities, please send an email in my contact form with the subject "Second Skin project inquiry".