Artists working within traditional spaces confront ableist barriers, as even well-intentioned designs often prioritize an able-bodied experience, requiring adaptation and resulting in exhaustion. Finnegan Shannon, whose artwork Do you want us here or not (MHR) - Bench is permanently on view, is one artist who challenges these norms through artwork that prioritizes a disability aesthetic while operating as an accessibility tool, providing seating that they require to be used as part of its appreciation.
Also on view, artist and disability activist Sharona Franklin creates work that responds to the dehumanizing experience of the medical and pharmaceutical industries. Each morning, she performs a self-described "bio ritual," photographing her medication in still-life arrangements which are printed on fabric, along with photos and text fragments that cover a hand-stitched quilt.
This event will start with a tour and discussion of these two artists’ work, followed by a first-person led dialogue and art making activity centered on creativity as a self care practice.
The event is open to students, faculty and staff. The RSVP is limited to 30.
Open to all members of the Oberlin campus community
