Emerging from atypical positions, Other Body Knowledge: Contending with the mythic norm is an exhibition that addresses the obstacles and generative potential presented by disability. Wide-ranging in complexity, the experience of disability is indeterminate and, like all bodies, atypical bodies are relational, dependent on others and in constant states of flux: ageing, dying, enduring and flourishing.
Other Body Knowledge reflects this indeterminacy, providing a space for artists to explore a range of political and personal tangents that arise from disabled experience. The artists address the relationship between disability and individualism in the current neoliberal climate, sexuality and sensuality within a disabled body, and the potentially damaging effects of institutionalised medical and ‘care’ systems. Here, disability is considered as a generative site from which to inform current art practice and contemporary culture.
This exhibition is part of a broader project that has been developed over the last twelve months involving collaborations and conversations with a range of d/Deaf and disabled artists. The culmination of this process included a public program of three sessions led by d/Deaf and disabled artists: Visual Describing in Art Spaces, an online panel discussing Art and Ableism and a Deaf Culture and d/Deaf Awareness workshop.
Video walkthrough available here.
Audio tour coming soon…
To view the catalogue essay click here.
To view the room sheet click here.
This project has been assisted by the Australian Government through the Australia Council, its arts funding and advisory body, and the City of Melbourne.
Image: Sam Petersen, Worm, 2018
video still