Susan S. Buzzi has received an Individual Artist Grant through the Broward County Cultural Division for her photo documentary , “This is How I Feel”. A former law enforcement officer, certified coach practitioner and educator, Susan explores the necessary and difficult domestic violence and abuse issues in ALL relationships. The exhibit opens on September 16 and runs thru October 22, 2022. The Public is invited to the Opening Reception and short lecture on Sunday, September 18, 2022. The Rickie Report shares the details, some of Susan’s insightful artwork and resources. PLEASE NOTE: Images are suitable for the general public and are accompanied by informative texts.
Sunrise Civic Center Theatre & Gallery
10610 W. Oakland Park Blvd. Sunrise, FL 33351
Sunday, September 18, 2022 3 pm
Exhibit runs September 16 – October 22, 2022
For more information and hours: 954.747.4646
“This is How I Feel” focuses on issues of sexual abuse and assault as well as domestic violence. Along with the widespread impact of the Covid-19 crises, statistics have alarmingly increased and the dialogue has become critical.
Susan Buzzi tells The Rickie Report, “My main objective with this photo documentary is of course, to bring awareness, given my careers in law enforcement, education, counseling and longtime advocacy; however, to deliver the message visually and promote it through the arts – this is the challenge and my distinct honor. And, every so often, I have the extraordinary opportunity to bring the voices to the surface for everyone to hear. I’ve provided the facts – the alarming statistics (which are underrepresented due to not originating as domestic-related calls and those that are simply not reported at all) – and I’ve also outlined the warning signs, scenarios, and life-saving contacts. Indeed, I am grateful to the Broward Cultural Division for their support of this project and to the Sunrise Civic Center Gallery for hosting the exhibition”.
As an arts educator and coach practitioner working with victims of crime, Susan often uses expressive therapies to overcome adversity and to build confidence and trust. “For this exhibit, I chose the traditional photography format at the onset of my shoots; developed the film by hand in the darkroom; and later often combined digital manipulation in order to distort identities and locations. With these techniques, I am able to preserve the basic photographic process of capturing specific moments prior to the shutter trip and then create new layers to enhance and extend the imagery.”
“Trapped” by Susan S. Buzzi
The actual process of healing through art while addressing the metaphors for the unspeakable and raising awareness, has also become a valuable vehicle and extraordinary opportunity for recovery and social change. This presentation is dedicated to ALL victims, survivors and their families. Susan shares, ” Each of these individuals have overcome great suffering, pain, darkness, and disappointment….and now have transitioned to healthier and safer places. I want to remind them that you are stronger than you know! I am most grateful to the Broward Cultural Division for support of this important project and to the Sunrise City Center Gallery for welcoming this exhibit. By doing so, you contribute to the social consciousness of our communities.”
These are uncomfortable, yet necessary conversations taking place across the country. We ALL must learn the warning signs to be observant and vigilant.
Domestic Violence is commonly perpetrated by men against women; however, females have also been known to exhibit violent behavior against their male partners. Approximately five percent of males are killed by their intimate partners. Each year, approximately 500,000 women are physically assaulted or raped by an intimate partner compared to 100,000 men. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, statistics show 1 in 3 women (35.6%) and 1 in 4 men (28.5%) will experience rape, physical violence or stalking in their lifetime.
Rape is primarily perpetrated by men, while women engage in other forms of violence against men. 26% of gay men and 37.3% of bisexual men have experienced rape, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner in their lifetime, in comparison to 29% of heterosexual men. When considering male same sex relationships, studies show approximately 26% of men called the police for assistance after experiencing near-lethal violence.
“Second Thoughts” by Susan S. Buzzi
Domestic violence and abuse affects our children, teens, elders, both males and females, and our LGBTQIA+ communities. When counseling victims of crime, assault, stalking and survivors of abuse, I incorporate expressive therapies which often include reflective writing and art programming. These methods, when combined with traditional treatment, have become invaluable for rehabilitation; they provide a comfortable approach as they relieve anxiety, depression and stress; rebuilds confidence and self-image; calms fears; and encourages the expression of feelings.
Susan sees herself as a social barometer with the goal to achieve “a consciousness” for the viewer. She says, “I think of art as a powerful tool with the potential to heal, protect, inspire, motivate, reveal, and impassion us all. Opening the imagination and encouraging it to soar creates avenues for participation; and surely, strengthening participation leads to commitment in everything we do”.
LGBTQIA+ individuals are found to be far more vulnerable and at risk to domestic violence and abuse than those engaged in heterosexual relationships. Reasons often include lack of reporting incidents and skewed statistics; fear of retaliation from their partner; judgement; and embarrassment in the community. Most recent statistics show that 43.8% of lesbian women and 61.1% of bisexual women have experienced rape, physical violence, and/ or stalking by an intimate partner at some point in their lifetime; as opposed to 35% of heterosexual women. (Human Rights Campaign Foundation, 2020)
“As an artist and educator, I feel it is my responsibility to create meaningful dialogue in what I do, and always to provide integrity and authenticity. The opportunity to strive to preserve our humanity, conquer adversity, and foster an appreciation and understanding for, and through the arts, is my privilege”. Buzzi will also be presenting work to the Broward Commission in October and accepting a Proclamation for National Domestic Violence Month as a member of the Broward Commission on the Status of Women.
Additional services, including alternative medicine and holistic approaches/treatments, need to be made more available for everyone – without stigma or shame – to ensure safe transitions and referrals for shelter and medical and legal services. It must be a unified approach: combining education, wellness and healthcare, the law and social services, and most importantly, our communities that will begin the process of healing ….
In September of 2021, Congress passed the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act which launched this past July in Broward County. “988” is now available to those in crisis or experiencing emotional distress for intervention and assistance.
For more information about this exhibit contact Sunrise Center Theatre Box Office 954.747.4646
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