The Opioid Project The Opioid Project

The Opioid Project: Changing Perceptions through Art and Storytelling

“This piece represents the cycles of generational trauma, and how we can break them. The cloud represents the chaos of the past, and lightning, while it can be destructive, is still a source of light. The figure in the center is shown in darkness, representing the difficult times from the past that we carry. However, the figure is surrounded by a ring of light, showing that we can heal from the wounds we carry from before. The figure reaches out to a figure in the bottom right corner that represents the future, and how we can create a future where they are protected from harm.”

“The roads in the bottom left corner represent roads you follow that lead to unknown destinations. Still, you trust that where you are going is the right way. The quote is meant to demonstrate that same idea, that even if it isn’t clear right away, eventually when you get to where you’re going the decision you made will make sense. The trees symbolize roots and growth and recovery. The 12-year recovery medallion is a celebration of recovery, but also a reminder of those who have been lost. I share a sobriety date with a friend who was lost, so now my sobriety date carries multiple meanings.”

“The painting captures the quiet stillness of an early morning, with a soft blue light washing over the landscape before the sun crests the hill. The hill itself symbolizes the difficult, ongoing journey of confronting stigma around substance use. At times it feels steep and uncertain, yet full of purpose. Though the sun remains just out of view, its gentle light suggests hope on the horizon, a promise of warmth and clarity to come. ”

“This art shows two faces side by side—one smiling, the other marked by sadness. It represents the dual reality many people with substance use disorder live in: appearing fine on the outside while carrying deep pain within. The smile can be a mask, used to hide shame, fear, or the weight of addiction. It’s a reminder that substance use isn’t always visible, and people often struggle in silence. The hope of this piece is to encourage compassion, awareness, and looking beyond the surface.”

“This piece of art uses a letter that I wrote titled “I want my daughter back.” The piece also includes lyrics to the song “Isn’t She Lovely” which was playing the day my daughter was born. My piece also includes my daughter’s own art, which she created during her high school years. Reflecting back, it is possible that these pieces could have been depicting my daughter’s difficulties. Either way, my daughter had bigger dreams and that’s what this piece is called.”

“This artwork features a beach on a hot day, by the water. No one is pictured under an umbrella, to represent the loss of my family member who loved the beach. I remember the happy memories sitting under an umbrella with my brother and enjoying the water. I chose to include the name, Philip, because I want people to remember my brother’s name and his story.”

“The road symbolizes the path of grief and navigating the winding journey of healing. The fork in the path: we can retreat into the darkness of grief, or we can choose to head towards the light. It may be hard to see if you are early in the grief process, but it is possible to find joy again after loss.”

The Opioid Project was funded by the Christine Gallery Community Benefit Grant Program from Emerson Hospital.