In February 2023, Chattanooga Regional Homeless Coalition (CRHC) began working with local artist, Robin Howe, to share the stories of the homeless community in Chattanooga. The goal: to increase an understanding of the diverse community and to illustrate to the general public that all stigmas are not accurate.
However, the project took on a life of its own. With unanticipated enthusiasm, those experiencing homelessness thrived on the recording of their stories and on being photographed. Repeatedly, they say, “it is so nice to be heard and given a chance to tell the community who we really are.” Responding to their desires for increased involvement, the interviewing became more frequent. Within a week after a “chat,” each individual received a laminated piece with their story with a photograph. Their stories could withstand weather and travel. In addition, the artist became more aware of what the needs of each individual was, and began donating items to fit their needs. This might include fantasy novels for Mo, drawing paper and pencil for Jessica, seeds for Star and size 9 shoes for Ponder. All of these items were donated by Bachman Community Center on Signal Mountain.
The stories were simply too good to only be included in the CRHC newsletter. Robin looked for a way to share them with a much larger audience, which led her to the Chattanooga Public Library.
Introducing Voices + Visions: a special exhibition on the 1st Floor of the Downtown Library, featuring posters, stories, a tarp, cardboard signs, and more. The exhibit will be on display starting June 20 through September 30, 2023.
The Downtown Library hosts a large and diverse group of visitors, including some of the folks experiencing homelessness. Individuals from the Howard High and Peeples Street campsites have come in to see their stories and to share with their friends. Mitch, a man experiencing homelessness who is in the library 4-5 days a week, said, “this is the best thing the library has ever done.”
After September, the exhibit will be on display at the Northgate and Eastgate libraries through the end of the year. To learn more about the artist Robin Howe, visit robinpaint.com.
