Sawteha Exhibit at the Laguna Art Museum

The event will feature original artwork and personal stories from courageous Christian women who face persecution
simply for their faith.  One of Take Heart’s most successful programs is teaching drawing, painting and other art skills
to persecuted women.  Expressing their traumatic experiences through art helps these artists heal from the suffering
they’ve endured.  “This is more than an art show—it’s a chance to give voice to women the world often overlooks,  ”
said Aida Makram, Executive Director of Take Heart.  “Each piece tells a story of pain, resilience and hope in Christ."

Women in conflict zones across the Middle East endure extreme forms of gender-based persecution, including forced
marriage, sexual violence, abduction and systemic exclusion from education and opportunity—often from within their
own communities or families.  “We specifically chose the name,‘Sawteha’ for the event because it means ‘her voice’ in
Arabic,  ” said Makram.  “Our prayer is that the Sawteha Gallery gives each artist a platform for her voice, shining a
light on her lived reality while honoring her courage and faith. Our team has been overwhelmed at the sophistication
and beauty displayed in the art from these women. We can’t wait to share it with our friends in southern California.”

The evening will include the gallery exhibit featuring original drawings, paintings and other works of art, light
refreshments and opportunities to learn how guests can partner in Take Heart’s mission.  Guests will also have the
opportunity to purchase some of the artwork on display.

Tickets are available for $75 through July 31 (early bird rate) and $100 after. All proceeds benefit the artists, their
communities and Take Heart’s ongoing work to provide spiritual, financial and technical support to persecuted
Christian women.