OnTheDL

Open-Mouthed Open Mic

by Campbell States

Sat., Sept. 20, 7:30-9 p.m., $5 donation, Studio 34, 4522 Baltimore Ave., 215-387-3434, studio34yoga.com

Hungry women have a lot to say. And finally, they'll have an opportunity to say it all at Studio 34's Open-Mouthed Open Mic, a night of sharing and expression for female artists dealing with eating disorders and negative body images.

Organizer Cherisse Austin, a recovering bulimic for the last 14 years, went into treatment for round two when she noticed there were plenty of women like her who needed help two or three times. She also realized she was surrounded by an extremely talented and creative group of singers, poets, writers and artists of all sorts who did not have an outlet. "There was something disconnected from treatment and applying it to their regular lives," explains Austin. "I wanted to create a safe space to deal with the most prevalent problems. I wanted to show how strong we are."

Tucked above an African music store and a body shop on Baltimore Avenue, West Philadelphia's community healing arts center Studio 34 is a natural venue for such an evening. "These events draw on the power of sharing in the experience of others, of being reminded that you are not alone," says Studio 34 co-founder Angie Norris. "Those recovering from eating disorders need to overcome a sense of shame. The most self-affirming moment for me was when I first told someone that I had recovered from an eating disorder. This issue is so layered in secrecy, that moment of telling, speaking the words and voicing the emotions, is very empowering."