Texarkana College Art Students Share Talent with Victims of Domestic Violence

November 17, 2016, Texarkana, TX-  Today, Texarkana College Art Students presented eighteen custom-designed murals to agency representatives from the Domestic Violence Prevention, Inc. to display at Gayle’s Safe Haven Shelter for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault.  TC Students designed and painted murals ranging in size from 3’ to over 6’ representing images that would be inspiring to clients residing at the shelter. 

“We are so very honored to receive the paintings,” said Amy Smith, Program Director for the shelter. “I am personally overwhelmed by the level of talent displayed in the painting of the murals.  It is evident that the students put a lot of time and careful thought into each and every one, and I can’t wait to share them with the residents of Gayle’s Safe Haven.” 

TC Art students began the project earlier this fall when instructor, Valerie Owen, became aware that the shelter facility could use a splash of color to brighten up the walls and lift victim’s spirits.  Owen said that she thought a service project of this kind would help students learn the importance of giving freely of their time and talent to help others in need.

“As a class, we talked about the importance of the use of color and design to provide inspiration to victims who need hope and a sense of calm in their lives,” Owen said. “We decided to use an image of a ladybug in our designs to represent and honor the life of victims. You will find a painted ladybug strategically placed in the design of each mural.”

The murals were designed with clients of every age to enjoy.  The shelter serves children as well as adults from throughout our region including Bowie and Cass Counties in Texas; and Miller, Little River, Hempstead and Lafayette Counties in Arkansas.  The shelter facility has dedicated rooms for children, adults, as well as families.

“Seeing these murals today has changed the way I will look at the rest of my day,” said Andrea Eibeck, Legal Advocate for Bowie County Domestic Violence Prevention, Inc. “The generosity shown us by the students and faculty of Texarkana College’s Art Department will help bring about a little happiness and a breath of fresh air to our clients at the shelter. We are so grateful for the contribution of time and talent that will bring color into the lives of victims who are struggling through dark and difficult times.”