About this Exhibition

The 2014-2015 chapter of I CAN WE CAN was organized by A Window Between Worlds (AWBW) in collaboration with Los Angeles-based media artist Cheri Gaulke. In the summer of 2014, Cheri supported teens at Harvard-Westlake School to create three powerful and award-winning films based on AWBW’s experience in the domestic violence field. Cheri Gaulke works in a variety of media and her practice focuses on social engagement and transformation through art. She has worked with teens creating video installations that have been exhibited in galleries, museums and film festivals internationally.

“We are surrounded by media that often sends negative messages about relationships and sexuality. I’m passionate about giving teens media production skills so they can infuse social media with their own authentic voices. Media is a powerful tool for social change. When teens create media about social issues they care about, they change the conversation. People listen.” – Cheri Gaulke

Inspired by the Harvard-Westlake students films and a video introduction by Gaulke, AWBW program staff trained Leaders from Los Angeles agency partners in the techniques of digital storytelling. The project continues to go forward powered by our agency partners to spark dialogue and amplify voices of those not often heard. Digital storytelling is the modern expression of the ancient form of storytelling – enabling us to share stories and make a meaningful connection with others. Each agency partner worked with survivors and community members to create stories that share messages of survival, resilience, and hope for the future. To date, approximately 200 digital stories have been produced with over 4,000 viewers.