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Through imagery and
words people explore
ideas, leading to greater
understanding of
themselves and others.
Those deeply affected
by the trauma of gun
violence discover they
can speak through art.
without gun violence by inviting
people to create 18" x 24" panels
depicting their visions of how to
prevent it. Some panel makers call
for stricter gun regulation while
others focus on suicide prevention.
Panels have been made by people
ages 3–96, including survivors,
families, veterans, gun owners,
incarcerated youth, and students
from preschool to university level.
Panels are often created by
groups in a workshop-style
setting. Utilizing the power of
art and imagination, participants
create their own reactions and
solutions to the nationwide public
health issue of gun violence.
As Cathy states, “Vision Quilt
is elevating the voices of youth
from underserved communities as
well as suburban grandmothers
who fear for the safety of their
grandchildren. We want these
panels to be used in their
communities on an ongoing
basis to inspire community
conversations that lead to action
planning on the local level toprevent gun violence.” Panel
making workshops are also held
with high-risk students and
incarcerated youth.
Each panel is unique—
some are made with intricate
quilting techniques, some with
paint, others with crayons. A
microfi lament textile called
Evolon® is often used as a
substrate. It can be sewn like
fabric yet drawn on like paper—a
material familiar to everyone.“Don’t Shoot Cuz We All Bleed”
Pam Rocco (Santa Cruz, California)