Central Michigan University
(dis)ABLED BEAUTY: the evolution of beauty, disability and ability is a celebration of highly designed assistive & adaptive devices, as well as apparel for those living with disabilities. Historically, people with disabilities have not always been held in the same esteem as able-bodied persons regarding level of beauty, intelligence and ability. Thus, many needing assistive devices would hide their disabilities in order to avoid the negative stigmatization that accompany the concept.
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This exhibition will features items including prostheses and mobility devices aimed to change the negative stigma associated with disabilities. The items featured in this exhibition are not for concealing, but rather, designed to be seen and shown off. After experiencing (dis)ABLED BEAUTY, maybe we will all believe that "disability is not a brave struggle or 'courage in the face of adversity.' Disability is an art. It's an ingenious way to live." - Neil Marcus
The student design competition is a collaborative effort between Threads Fashion, the Fashion Merchandising and Design department, the Department of Communication Sciences Disorders, the Clarke Historical Library, and the student designers.
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The main purpose of the juried competition is to provide an opportunity for fashion merchandising and design students to display their creative work. The contest was designed to promote the (dis)ABLED BEAUTY exhibit and opening reception and in a broader context, the competition provided an opportunity for fashion design students to explore and encourage a discussion between fashion students and people living with disabilities.
Threads Fashion Show
Central Michigan University
Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Michigan State University
Springer Prothetics & Orthotic Services, Inc.
Unitron Hearing Devices
Oticon Hearing Solutions