Teens Use Art and Advocacy to Raise Awareness for Teen Dating Violence

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February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, and young people in Oshkosh, Wisconsin are making their voices heard through art and advocacy. The Love Shouldn't Hurt Project is hosting its annual teen art gallery, featuring over 50 works of art created by local youth. The gallery opens on Thursday with a reception where the public can vote for their favorite piece, and the closing reception is on February 26th.

Why it matters

Teen dating violence is a serious issue that often goes unaddressed. This project provides a platform for young people to express themselves, raise awareness, and support survivors of abuse through creative outlets like art. The high participation rate shows the importance of this cause to the local community.

The details

The Love Shouldn't Hurt Teen Art Gallery features work from youth in the Oshkosh area. Megan, a Youth Team Leader for the project, says there is a record number of over 50 submissions this year. The gallery is open to the public, and attendees are encouraged to leave encouraging messages for survivors of teen dating violence and domestic abuse.

• The Love Shouldn't Hurt Teen Art Gallery opens on Thursday, February 4, 2026 with a reception from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
• Voting for the winning art piece begins at the opening reception on February 4th.
• The closing reception for the gallery is on February 26, 2026 from 4:40 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

What’s next

The closing reception for the Love Shouldn't Hurt Teen Art Gallery is on February 26, 2026 from 4:40 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., where the winning art piece will be announced.