The Phoenix Project

Information on cults, cultic groups, psychological manipulation, psychological abuse, spiritual abuse, brainwashing, mind control, thought reform, abusive churches, extremism, totalistic groups, new religious movements, alternative and mainstream religions, group dynamics, exit counseling, recovery, and practical suggestions for those affected by or interested in these subjects.

Info for:

The Phoenix Project

Ex- cult member Art and Literary Works

Shown at ICSA 2006 Convention, Denver, CO

By Diana Pletts

Coordinator, Phoenix Project

The Phoenix Project is designed as an exhibit of cult-related artwork created by former members of cults, or high-demand organizations. The artworks exhibited illustrate or illuminate some aspect of the cult or high-demand experience: the world of ex-members, their healing or recovery, or their time of transition from their cult or high-demand organization. Creations range among the art forms, and include visual artworks in two and three dimensions, literary art presentations, and compositions of music.

This slide show includes works exhibited at ICSA's 2006 annual conference in Denver, Colorado. New works will be exhibited at the 2008 annual conference at the University of Pennsylvania.

This exhibit sheds light on the reality of life in a high-demand organization and its effects on individuals. It is also providing an empowering experience for participating artists, giving them the chance to tell their own stories in their own ways.

We hope that you will enjoy this presentation of artworks created to enlighten others on cult and post-cult life. See the slides below and the text of literary contributions here. Some slides may take time to load, depending upon your browser. Use your "back" button to return to this page.