Empowering Women Through Art

My name is Madeleine Stolp and I am an Art and Sociology double major in the class of 2025. I’m interning at the Elizabeth Gregory Home, a women’s shelter located in Seattle, WA. The Elizabeth Gregory Home (EGH) seeks to address the needs of women experiencing homelessness in the Seattle area through offering a variety of resources and accommodations. One area that EGH has had difficulty accommodating is the need for creative expression through art. While EGH receives art supplies through donations, there has not been anyone to offer guidance on how to use the materials available or provide ideas for projects. I seek to address this, and limit any barriers or hesitations individuals may feel while approaching art. 

Twice a week, I devise a new art project and lead clients through the process of creating their very own version of it. Together we have decorated tote bags, made faux stained glass, designed jewelry, along with many other fun crafts. For each project, I will print out the instructions and photos for clients to follow along with. I also will provide visual and verbal instruction for those who prefer to learn that way. While I always come prepared with a project at hand, I also assist clients who have their own ideas and need help figuring out the best way to realize their vision. For those who don’t take their projects with them, I make sure to display their work for people to come in and admire. 

One of my main goals of this internship has not only been to make clients feel more comfortable and inspired to make art, but also to build a community of support. This summer I have connected with other shelters in the area for an art project once a month. These projects bring together a larger community of women who have a shared passion for art. While creating their projects, I have seen these women build relationships and connect with those who they may not have otherwise.  My favorite part of these projects has been to see how these women support and encourage each other, constantly uplifting those around them. There have been people who come in, not for the art, but because they hear the laughter and they enjoy hanging out in the creative space. I hope to continue to encourage this kind of atmosphere for the rest of my internship here and enjoy the company of these inspiring women.