DISABILITY ARTS IN THE PUBLIC EYE
An outstanding panel of professional artists from a variety of artistic genres explored the many
factors that had contributed to their own success as disabled artists and artists with disabilities,
and discussed the role of festivals in placing disability arts in the public eye. Panellists
included Martin Deschamps, Monianne, Tekki Lomnicki, Sidiki Conde and Geoff McMurchy. The session
was moderated by Sheila Boyd.
WOMEN, DISABILITY & THE ART OF DISCLOSURE: Is There Ever a Best Time?
Following the screening of the film "Multiple" in which Alison Peebles confronts her "coming out"
about having multiple sclerosis, a panel moderated by Helen Henderson investigated issues
around disclosure and when to discuss what and with whom. Panellists included Susan Thompson,
Joanne Patterson, Dr. Marsha Cohen and Lorna Rosenstein.
WOMEN, DISABILITY & THE ART OF DISCLOSURE: "Conversation and Controversy"
This dynamic and lively panel discussion followed the screening of "Miss Ability" a behind
the scenes documentary about the extraordinary and controversial "Miss Ability" show; a
live televised beauty pageant for women with disabilities that received 25 percent of
the audience share when it aired on Dutch television. The panel discussion moderated by
Fran Odette examined the impact that a beauty pageant specifically for woman with
disabilities, such as the one held in the Netherlands, can have on the public's
perception as well as upon one's personal perceptions of self and/ or disability.
Panellists included Sheila Boyd, Catherine MacKinnon and Christine Karcza
VISUAL ARTS TOUR of "BODY LANGUAGE" with KYLA HARRIS
KYLA HARRIS : Access Sex - An Inside perspective.
Following a day of films and panel discussions on women, disability and the art of
disclosure, Kylas Harris provided her own unique perspectives on the Access Sex and
Body Language Exhibits.
