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UNTYING THE LIVING KNOT

The Art of Changing Your Dysfunctional Cycles That Poverty Created

Based on my humble experience with the indirect and specific dysfunctional cycles of poverty, UTLK art series is peppered with anecdotes, imagery and insights for building individual empowerment, emotional strength and significant change.

Art for people, not auction houses and museum walls.

Jessey Jansen

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Causes of Poverty

the lasting consequences 

I was in 7th grade when my art teacher presented all the students with an 8×8-inch copper plate. He explained to us that as soon as we pressed into the plate the lines would be permanent, so we were to give thought to what we wanted to create before starting. Every student was provided the same tools and resources, my relief shaped into a butterfly, and was chosen for exhibition at the state capitol.

 

I was thrilled and ran home after school to give the good news to my parents who I knew would be steadfast in support of attending the debut. As I walked home, I could hear the shouting from two houses down, my parents were fighting again. As I neared, my dad stumbled down the stairs in drunken tears as my mom was vehemently wailing in the dark house. The power had been shut off again, decided it was best to go straight to my bedroom and wait to share the news.

 

It took a few days for the fighting to stop and electricity to return, at which point I shared my news and observed a hopeful glimmer in my parent’s eyes. I was certain that like the little copper plate, with the proper tools and resources I could go on to create a better life for all of us.

Understanding Social Mobility

mapping change

NEEDS FOR SURVIVAL
Communication
Food / Water (nutrition)
Education
Healthcare
Sanitation
Shelter
Transportation

Stage 1: Recognition

Don't judge your situation, notice it.

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Isolation from Resources

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Access to Resources

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Working With Resources

Stage 2: Diagnose

Don't be afraid of the truth, evaluate your circumstances and identify it.

Stage 3: Empower

Don't wait for change, create change.

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