Susana Lewandowski

Transform the Narrative

On View: February 23 – April 20, 2024 I Sculpture Garden

Opening Reception: Friday, February 23, 2024 | 6 - 8 PM

Artist Talk: Saturday, February 24, 2024 | Starting at 2 PM


Transform the Narrative is a public art piece by Susana Lewandowski. The development of the idea for the project came from the artist’s participation in the Human Trafficking Leadership Academy in 2021, where along with other professionals developed and published recommendations for prevention of Labor trafficking in migrants. The Human Trafficking Leadership Academy (HTLA) seeks to develop and expand survivor-informed services. To do this, HTLA offers leadership development opportunities to survivor leaders and allied professionals. The focus of Cohort 6 in 2021 was “assessing and responding to risk factors among migratory families to prevent labor trafficking”. 

Lewandowski’s creative passion from taking part in this program grew into the concept of the community mural, which combines her love of storytelling and developing educational awareness using public art. The project is a dedication to the survivors and professionals who work in the anti-movement depicting themes of courage, growth, and healing.

Artist Bio

Susana Lewandowski is a visual artist born in El Salvador. She received her Bachelor of Arts and Master of Science in Psychology from Our Lady of the Lake University and is a first-generation college graduate. Her artwork draws inspiration from her heritage, nature, and immigrant identity. She has worked in nonprofits, where she expanded her knowledge on the impact of trauma, immigration, and adjustment issues within the BIPOC community. Her interest for creating public art projects has developed through her passion for storytelling and the importance of creativity in the healing of communities. Susana’s creative vision is to assist in the continuing cultivation of systemic change for equality in immigrant and vulnerable communities by providing collaboration and education using the creative arts.

Artist Website

Instagram: @susy29