In the wake of a tragic shooting at Saint Francis Hospital in 2022, a local community in Tulsa, Oklahoma, has found a unique way to commemorate the victims and shed light on the impact of gun violence through art.

The Soul Box Project: A Visual Representation of Pain

At the First Friday Art Crawl, attendees were confronted with a poignant display of origami soul boxes, each representing the pain and loss experienced by victims of gun violence. Dr. Stephanie Husen, along with three other innocent individuals, lost their lives in the shooting incident.

Beth Husen, Dr. Stephanie Husen’s sister-in-law, revealed the staggering scale of the issue, stating, We have 727 boxes… That represents the people affected by gun violence in just over three days here in the United States. This harrowing statistic underscores the profound impact of gun-related incidents on communities nationwide.

Honoring Victims, Raising Awareness

The Husen family, deeply affected by the tragedy, established Oklahoma’s Chapter of the Soul Box Project as a means of honoring victims and raising awareness about the realities of gun violence. Through their initiative, they hope to inspire dialogue and action to prevent further loss of life.

Community Response and Reflection

Attendees of the art display expressed a mix of emotions, with many acknowledging the stark reality of gun violence and its devastating consequences. Dianne Morrison, moved by the exhibit, remarked, The violence, the destruction of mankind. It brings tears to my eyes. The visceral impact of the artwork serves as a powerful reminder of the human toll of gun-related incidents.

Seeking Solutions

While the display serves as a poignant tribute to victims, it also prompts reflection on the urgent need for solutions to address the root causes of gun violence. Morrison expressed frustration at the lack of easy answers, stating, We shouldn’t have to accept drive-by shootings and an 8-year-old dies. It’s just something that we shouldn’t have to accept as normal.

Continuing the Conversation

The art display’s impact extends beyond the initial event, with upcoming exhibitions planned at the Philbrook Museum of Art and Circle Cinema. By continuing to engage the community in dialogue and reflection, organizers hope to foster meaningful change in the fight against gun violence.

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