

Our Art of Me partnership with Northeast Contemporary Services, Inc. (NCSI) this winter was two-fold: one residency culminated in a live performance (see previous blog post for the recap!) and the other culminated in a stunning photo exhibit of the participants.
The Art of Me photo exhibit features portraits of NCSI community members. Each set is a diptich showcasing one self-portrait of the artist and one portrait styled by a peer. In this way, participants were able to share both how they see themselves and how they see each other. Sometimes playful, sometimes serene, these images give viewers an opportunity to glimpse one aspect of the rich identity that makes up each person.






The images featured in The Art of Me exhibit reflect months of collaborative work within our community. They include images created in partnership with Minneapolis-based photographer Jeff Cords, site staff, and Upstream Arts teaching artists, as well as self-portraits captured by participants and their peers. Guided by shared prompts and creative ideas, this collaboration has resulted in a vibrant collection that celebrates the unique perspectives and talents of the NCSI community.






Throughout the residency, participants practiced different ways to tell their stories and express who they are, from painting to rhythm to movement to poetry. They also practiced photo shoots with the Upstream Arts Teaching Artists in advance of the final photo shoot with Jeff Cords. Particpants exercised creative agency and choice-making as they tried out different expressive modes and made final selections.








The final images from all 14 participants were exhibited in the main space at NCSI, which is also where the performance for the companion Art of Me residency took place. These photographs displayed a beautiful array of personalities captured in small moments and formed a lovely backdrop for the live performance.






This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a grant from the Minnesota State Arts Board, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.
All our work is made possible by the generosity of our community of supporters. Join us in using the creative arts to activate and amplify the voice and choice of individuals with disabilities.
Photos in collaboration with Jeff Cords
