In 2012, Courage Ablaze included seven-foot pillars portraying Congo’s stories of rape and images of the fierce determination of Congolese women. An eight-foot copper tree, the Flame Tree, held charred frames representing the eight million people slaughtered in Congo’s holocaust. The small pillars portrayed the courageous survivors rising up out of the ashes and rebuilding their lives.
This art, honoring Congolese rape survivors from half a world away, prompted several American visitors to confide their own rape stories. In those tender moments, the artwork helped facilitate small—but significant steps—towards healing.
What can you do to help empower the survivors in your life?
I teach art at a private Christian school for children and have adopted “Culture Care”as the theme. This is such an inspiring example of what I am attempting to impart to the future artist being raised up. To take back their imaginations and use it to glorify God and love people by being light and salt preserving life and caring for all cultures. I love this and it is so blessed my heart!!! Mitchell
Jennifer, you sound like an amazing teacher and your vision for raising future artists is so inspiring! Mako Fujimura first introduced me to the idea of cultivating the mindset of culture care vs culture wars. I commend you for launching tomorrow’s leaders into the world to be creative ambassadors–for the good of all people. Sounds like you understand the Greater Call.