In a series of readings and exhibits hosted by local Whole Foods Markets, homeless and formerly homeless artists from Miriam’s Studio have been exploring and celebrating the persistent theme of courage as portrayed in the Pulitzer Prize-winning play by Lynn Nottage, “Ruined.”

Delving into the play, which tells the story of a group of women and their struggles to survive in a brothel in their war-torn country, “encouraged the artists and poets who utilize Miriam’s Studio to engage in ongoing explorations of what courage means thematically and practically,” explained Kate Baasch, an art therapist who leads the studio program based at Miriam’s Kitchen, a Foggy Bottom meal and social service program for the homeless.

The resulting works, Baasch said,  “can be thought of as visual records of artists reflecting, offering and responding to the challenge “Ruined” presents us all: What is courage and what does courage mean in this play; in the torn setting of the Congo; in our own country; in our own lives?”

At a presentation at the Tenleytown Whole Foods on April 21, dozens of fans showed up to admire paintings, enjoy snacks and listen to readings by poets, including Paul Taylor, Vance Brown and James Jordan.

The Miriam’s events have been part of the citywide Live to Read celebration, presented by the Humanities Council of Washington, D.C. and partners across the District. Georgetown Whole Foods Market, located at 2323 Wisconsin Ave. NW, will host the next Miriam’s reading and exhibit on Thursday, April 28^, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Light refreshments will be served.

Artworks from Miriam’s Studio are expected to remain on display at the Tenleytown and Georgetown Whole Foods Markets through May.