Invisible Voices is an ongoing project. This interactive ceramic installation incorporates first-hand accounts from those who are on the fringe of mainstream American society-- black, brown, indigenous, LGBTQ+, elderly, disabled individuals and persons with mental health disorders. Such people are all around us, but they remain virtually “invisible” unless they disrupt the lives of those in mainstream society. Each voice is represented by a handmade ceramic vessel. This collection represents every moment of connection and disconnection between us all and reminds us that we all experience purpose, isolation, loss, and community in various stages of life.

During the exhibition, viewers are encouraged to leave a note in the vessels for any of the voices they connect with, they want to understand more, or they want to encourage. It is meant to bring unlikely individuals together in conversation and healing in the midst of isolation and division brought on by an ongoing pandemic, racial tensions, and political discord in modern day America.

To get involved in this project or for further questions, inquiries may be sent to amysandersdemelo@gmail.com. If you would like to be a contributor to future installations, please fill out the form here. The first installation of this project in 2022 was funded by a Thrive Grant, a program of the Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition in partnership with The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts. The second installation of this project in 2024 was funded by the Artists Creative Fund, a program of the George Kaiser Family Foundation in partnership with Cache.

2024 Installation at POSITIVE SPACE, TULSA, OK

2022 Installation at Resonator Institute, Norman, OK