Transformation, transparency and the power of the collective is captured in the wooden hive and spiral installation created by artists from the Maryland Institute College of Art. The two-immersive installations capture the values of House of Ruth and seek to inspire both survivors and volunteers.
The materiality of these pieces were specifically chosen for their meanings of higher awareness, connectedness, protection, healing, and strength. By incorporating materials of opposing weight and density, the structures further highlight the organizations desire for transparency along this transformative journey. Both structures, reflecting the necessary process in self reflection and self awareness for any person entering this collaborative space.
In addition, the wood basins, which hold a mix of gemstones and river rocks, allow the viewer to participate in the artwork and commemorate loved ones and the victims that have died at the hands of their intimate partners. By placing a stone into the hive structure and looking up into the spiral, one gains newfound hope for a better future and comes to see the collective power of House of Ruth and its volunteers. Made through collaboration with Cynthia O’Neil, Fanni Somogyi, Victoria Schultz, Amy Carlton, So Hee Kim, Darcy Argon, and Rebecca Burr.