DANBURY - The Cultural Alliance of Western Connecticut (CAWC) is inviting art entries for "End Works 2017," a new initiative in collaboration with The Women's Center of Greater Danbury.

The project seeks statements about domestic violence and sexual assault in two-dimensional media to be exhibited in CAWC's Accessible Art series, with selected works to be auctioned to benefit the Women's Center.

CAWC Executive Director Lisa Scails said the the intention of "End Works 2017" is to engage and move the conversation forward.

"Art has the ability to give voice to and increase awareness of domestic violence and sexual assault," sadi Ms Scails. "The goal of this collaboration is to provide an opportunity for artists to show work that will engage and move the community forward in a meaningful discussion. We anticipate a spectrum of responses that will illuminate the truth about these issues, raise questions, and give hope."

"End Works 2017" is inspired by the Women Center's vision to end the violence against women, men and children, to foster equality and empowerment for all. The relationship between artist and audience is distinctive, creating an artist-led encounter between those whose lives have been touched by domestic violence and sexual assault, and those who have not.

The Women's Center would like each artist to explore this vision and what it means to them personally, and for the nation at large; to create common ground, explore issues related to domestic violence and sexual assault that inspire truth and hope; and deepen the dialogue about the issue.

Pat Zachman, president and CEO of the Women's Center, says, "We are excited to be a part of this project which will offer yet another means of expressing the reality of domestic violence and sexual assault in a unique and creative manner."

The project is open to artists 18 years old and up based in Connecticut. Artists are required to be a current member of the Cultural Alliance of Western Connecticut to participate. The annual membership fee for the alliance, which provides for the organization's extensive marketing and promotions services, is $45.

Online payments are accepted at bit.ly/cawcmembership - or by check made payable and sent to Cultural Alliance of Western Connecticut, 287 Main Street, Danbury CT 06810.

Artists may submit up to three pieces. Works may be representational or abstract. All media including oils, watercolors, graphics, acrylics, computer generated pieces, photography, etc., may be submitted. Works in progress are allowed.

All submissions must be of original design and must be for sale. CAWC reserves the right to reject any and all works of art submitted to the exhibition.

A panel of accomplished artists will jury submissions. The jury's decision is final.

Deadline for entries is Friday, March 10.

Selected artists will be notified of Accessible Art dates and locations in advance.

Artists whose works are selected to exhibit may have their work(s) be chosen for auction at the Women's Center annual gala, "An Evening Together," to be held this year on Friday, April 7, at The Amber Room in Danbury.

All proceeds from selected pieces for auction will benefit the Women's Center.

Artists may find more information and to submit entries by visiting bit.ly/1MpJxNA.

For additional information about CAWC or "End Works 2017," call 203-798-0760.