International Women’s Day at UEL: Using Art to Break the Silence on Domestic Abuse

Last week for International Women’s Day 2025, SHEWISE marked the occasion in a truly impactful way—by using art as a powerful tool to spark conversations about gender-based violence, resilience, and healing. Hosted at the University of East London (UEL), our event provided a space to honor survivors, challenge societal norms, and inspire change.

While International Women’s Day is a time to celebrate progress, it is also a reminder that many women continue to face challenges, particularly those trapped in cycles of domestic abuse. This year’s theme, #AccelerateAction, perfectly aligned with our mission to not only raise awareness but to take meaningful steps toward ending gender-based violence.

Through our ‘I Am Enough’ and ‘A Thousand Cuts’ exhibitions, we aimed to highlight these realities while celebrating the courage and resilience of survivors. These powerful artistic displays allowed us to tell the often unseen and unheard stories of women who have experienced abuse, showing their pain but also their strength and determination to break free.

The Power of Art in Storytelling

Art has long been a medium for expression, activism, and healing, and for this event, it became a powerful way to amplify the voices of survivors. Each piece in our exhibition was designed to reflect the complex emotions and experiences of women who have endured domestic abuse.

‘I Am Enough’ – This exhibition represented the moment a woman decides to break free from abuse, illustrating the emotions, fears, and courage it takes to leave. It was a powerful reminder that no woman is alone in her journey.

‘A Thousand Cuts’ – This exhibition symbolized the hidden scars of abuse, capturing both the trauma and the remarkable resilience of survivors. It honored the strength it takes to not only survive but to heal and rebuild.

As Saima Khan, Founder of SHEWISE, shared:"International Women’s Day is a celebration of strength, but it’s also a reminder that true empowerment means addressing the silent struggles women face. Through these exhibitions, we want to not only raise awareness but also foster a community where survivors feel heard, supported, and empowered to reclaim their lives."

Why This Event Was So Important

While we often focus on progress and achievements on International Women’s Day, it is equally important to acknowledge the real and ongoing struggles that many women face daily. Domestic abuse is a global issue, and events like this help to shine a light on its impact while encouraging dialogue, understanding, and action.

Raising Awareness – Domestic abuse remains one of the biggest barriers to women’s empowerment. By sharing these personal and deeply moving stories, we aimed to challenge the stigma and silence that often surround this issue.

Encouraging Conversation – The exhibition sparked deep discussions about women’s rights, the importance of safe spaces, and the need for greater action. Many attendees shared personal experiences, reflections, and ideas for how we can support survivors better.

Empowering Women – By showcasing survivors’ journeys through art, we reinforced that every woman is enough, every woman deserves safety, and every woman has the strength to heal and rebuild her life.

Continuing the Movement for Change

While International Women’s Day is one day, our commitment to action continues all year long. SHEWISE is now launching a new art series focused on young survivors—giving them a platform to share their experiences and find healing through storytelling.

If you or someone you know would like to be involved in this next exhibition, please email Saima@shewise.org.

A huge thank you to UEL, our partners, and everyone who joined us in making this event so meaningful. Together, let’s keep advocating, supporting, and ensuring that no woman suffers in silence.