Abilities First and Randy Bacon Photography are proud to present The Life I Choose, a portrait, film and storytelling exhibition by humanitarian portrait photographer and filmmaker Randy Bacon, opening July 11 at C-Art Gallery on Commercial Street.
Created in partnership with Abilities First, the exhibition features powerful black-and-white portraits, personal narratives and short documentary films that invite viewers to experience the lives of people with disabilities through their own voices and perspectives. “The Life I Choose exhibit reminds us that people with the lived experience of a disability are not asking to be placed on the margins of our community… “They are our neighbors, artists, workers, students, leaders, family members, friends, and storytellers. Their lives bring wisdom, joy, strength, creativity, and depth to the communities we all share. This exhibit reflects what we know
to be true: every person deserves the opportunity, support, and respect to choose the life they want to live.” Maggie Rollwagen, CEO of Abilities First
Each participant shares a story about the choices they make, the relationships they value, the dreams they pursue and the support systems that help them live meaningful, self-directed lives. Together, the portraits, films and narratives offer an intimate look at identity, independence, dignity and belonging. The Life I Choose challenges assumptions about disability by focusing on the humanity that connects us all. Rather
than defining people by labels, the exhibition highlights individuals as full, complex human beings with unique experiences, aspirations and contributions.
The exhibition opens Saturday, July 11 @ 10am – 4pm, at C-Art Gallery, located at 208 and 212 E. Commercial Street in Springfield. Following the opening, the exhibition will be available for public viewing during regular gallery hours: Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Community members, families, educators, service providers, local partners and anyone who believes in a more inclusive community are encouraged to attend and experience the exhibition.
For more information, contact [email protected].
