The Logan Library is proud to host the Souls Shot: Portraits of Victims of Gun Violence portrait exhibit now through December 30, Monday through Friday from 1:00 p.m.-4:30 p.m.

This exhibit will consist of portraits of victims of gun violence, some of who never made it past their teenage years, hanging throughout the main floor of the library. These portraits memorialize lives that were cherished and blessed, lives lost much too soon to the chronic plague that is gun violence.

The Souls Shot project pairs artists with the shattered families of victims of gun violence. The artists meet with the families and friends of the victims, listen to their stories, and view their photographs and videos. The artists gather these images and stories and, through varied approaches and mediums, strive to capture the unique qualities of their souls, who and what they loved, were proudest of, what they believed in, how they lived their lives, and what they desired for their futures.

Each of these lives lost were blessings that left only memories for their grandparents, mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters, cousins, aunts, uncles, children, best friends, nieces, and nephews.  These victims continue to be loved, remembered, and missed while many of their criminal cases remain unsolved. Each artist has a sense of purpose, empathy, and even love, for the victim and their loved ones, hoping to bring some joy and peace to their families.

By visiting this exhibition and viewing these narrative portraits, we hope that you, too, can get to know some of these unique personalities and celebrate the lives of these souls lost. The artists that created these telling portraits and the families that shared their loved ones have made a contribution to all of us. We can appreciate their colorful personalities and uplifting memories while absorbing the sobering reality and insanity of gun violence in our city.

Throughout November and December, we will host virtual interviews with the families of some of the victims, and some of the many organizations working so hard to make a difference. These interviews will be posted on Logan Library’s Facebook page.

The content in this exhibit may be sensitive to some viewers.

Safety protocols must also be followed: masks must be worn, visitors must stay at least 6 feet apart, and occupancy numbers will be limited. Please call before visiting in case of library closings. Bring your library card as we will have adult and children’s books available for check out around the subjects of nonviolence, gun violence, conflict resolution, grieving, and other related topics.  

For more information, contact the Logan Library at 215-685-9156 or visit the Souls Shot website.