EXHIBIT OVERVIEW
Heroes Within is a new and affirming exhibit of unique superheroes created by LGBTQ+ youth and designed by Queer and ally artists from around the world.
An inclusive group of kids, teens, and young adults have come together for a powerful social emotional art experience that centers their voices, celebrates their strengths, and fosters healing through art.
Through personal interviews, participants shared their stories and hopes for making a positive impact on the world. Artists then transformed them into their heroic alter egos — bold visual portraits that reflect each one’s identity, courage, and creativity.
Explore the uplifting exhibit, join the discussion, and be inspired all month long!
Events are free and open to the community. RSVPs requested.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
HEROES WITHIN: Opening Celebration
Thursday, June 11
5:30-8 pm
Celebrate the uplifting exhibit and hear the moving story behind this new pantheon of LGBTQ+ superheroes. Enjoy light refreshments as you explore and mingle.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
THE POWER OF THE SUPERHERO PROJECT
Saturday, June 13
10-11:30 am
In this fun and friendly workshop, discover new superhero kids and teens, celebrate differences of all kinds, and create a family crest inspired by the values you treasure most. A member of our League of Extraordinary Artists will transform your crest for you. Youth of ALL abilities and identities are welcome. Bring your grown-ups and your imagination!
Free & Open to the Community
RSVPs requested; please include the names & ages of young participants.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
HAPPY HOUR FOR PROFESSIONAL STUDENTS
Monday, June 15
4-6 pm
Preparing for a career in pediatrics, nursing, child life, narrative medicine, art therapy, or social work? Students, along with their teachers and supervisors, will learn how The Superhero Project uses imagination, storytelling, and inclusion to empower youth marginalized by their identity, diagnosis or disability. Light refreshments served.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
MAXXIE LAWOW: DRAG SUPER-SHERO
Drag queens and kings, kids of all ages, families and friends – are you ready for the award-winning animated film Maxxie LaWow: Drag Super-Shero? This glitter-filled musical fantasy celebrates queer voices, creativity, courage, and self-discovery.
Friday, June 26
1-3:30 pm
Enjoy afternoon tea and snacks at the matinee screening. A panel discussion will follow, featuring:
- Anthony Hand, Maxxie LaWow creator, director, and producer
- Sanina Clark, AK Press
- Fury Storm, Drag Performer
- Bridget Caswell, Heroes Within Exhibit Manager
DIVAS, DONUTS & DOOM IN THE LaWOW LOUNGE
Friday, June 26
6-8 pm
Kick off the weekend with sweet treats, dazzling animation, villainous queen Dyna Bolical, and an animated aerial lip-synch showdown at the evening screening.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
INNER ICONS AND DAZZLING DIVAS: A QUEER FAMILY WORKSHOP
Saturday, June 27
10 am-12 pm
Designed for LGBTQ+ families, this affirming workshop includes an interactive exploration of the exhibit, creative reflection activities, and collaborative conversations about how families can make the world a better place. Design a sticker that represents your crew and receive it later this summer. Youth of ALL abilities and identities are welcome. Bring your grown-ups and your imagination!
Free & Open to the Community
RSVPs requested; please include the names & ages of young participants.
_______________________________________________________________________________________
Heroes Within is presented with support from The Dr. Janet Silverstein Charitable Foundation, Ohio Arts Council, Stonewall Community Foundation, Crescendo, and Positive Exposure.
Special thanks to our community partners and exhibit hosts: Maxxie LaWow: Drag Queen Super-Shero, Full Spectrum Outreach Center (Youngstown), Trans Town (Portland), Bayard Rustin LGBTQ+ Resource Center (Akron), Trans Joy Akron, and Rainbow Center (Tacoma).
Visit the Heroes Within digital gallery.
Contact Lisa@SHPkids.org or 440.796.1605 for more info.