Innocence Stolen , 2021
11 x 14 in (h x w)
Photography

Nine-year-old “Mary-Anne” lives in a long-term living facility for cybersex trafficking survivors in Manila, Philippines.

“‘SURVIVOR: A Global Look at Human Trafficking’ is an extensive portrait series that sheds light on the underrepresented and often ignored survivors of sex trafficking, forced labor, and forced marriage in Uganda; Manila, Philippines; Addis Ababa, Ethiopia; Camelote, Belize; Nairobi, Kenya; New York City; and Portland, Maine. The series consists of intimate portrayals of the healing, recovery, and reintegration process. This has been a collaborative project that aims to engage survivors in the creative process of representing their own stories. By providing a platform for survivors to take charge of their own stories, my hope is that love and truth will pave the way for others to find comfort in knowing they are not alone.”

— Matilde Simas

Exhibited by:

ArtWorks for Freedom

Other works by Matilde Simas

Jason , 2022
11 x 14 in (h x w)
Photography
ArtWorks for Freedom
Forced to Marry , 2019
11 x 14 in (h x w)
Photography
ArtWorks for Freedom

More from ArtWorks for Freedom

Red Riding Hood , 2016
16 x 16.1 in (h x w)
Mixed media
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Stuck , 2020
66.5 x 53.5 in (h x w)
Oil on primed canvas
ArtWorks for Freedom
Corrupted Eagle , 2009
17.5 x 23 in (h x w)
Etching and relief on 100% cotton paper
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Long Ago , 2022
40 x 30 in (h x w)
Oil on canvas
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Mountain Walk , 2008
9 x 12 in (h x w)
Watercolor on gesso
ArtWorks for Freedom