8 - Holding Space or Raising Walls

“The church made me feel ashamed of who I was. I’m non-binary but presented as a cis girl back then, and the strict gender binary in the church was suffocating and exhausting to combat. Add to that - there was always a disconnect between what people said and did - they SAID to love others, but I watched them hate and abuse people for who they were and who they loved. I watched them pat themselves on the back for “helping urban Atlanta” without ever asking if the ‘help’ was actually needed or wanted. That disconnect made it impossible for me to exist in the church, because I care too much about other people and I was constantly in conflict with my parents and small groups leaders about what the best way to help was. The church, in my experience, is focused on itself and maintaining its own power, and that leads to white saviorism, not real help or community benefits. I eventually got tired of being told that my love for others was “unChristlike” and left.” -Jordan

“I left because I didn't want to worship a god who would punish good people just because they didn't believe in him.” -Jory

11x14 acrylic on watercolor paper in wood frame

**Each piece will be delivered once the show ends, it is looking like this will be the end of February but it may be extended**