Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council seeks public art submissions to celebrate Disability Pride Month in July

The Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council (MiDDC), a part of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, and the Self-Advocates of Michigan (SAM) are proud to co-host the “Breaking Barriers” Art Exhibition, a celebration of Disability Pride Month through art made by Michigan artists with developmental disabilities.

The call for artwork is now open, and MiDDC and SAM will be accepting submissions from Michigan residents who identify as a person with a developmental disability until Friday, June 2. The “Breaking Barriers” Art Exhibition will take place both in-person and online in July. It will highlight the contributions of artists with disabilities while breaking down the stigmas preventing these artists from accessing more opportunities in the art world.

“Disabilities are a beautiful and natural part of human diversity, and we are thrilled to work with artists with disabilities to showcase their pride through art,” said Vendella Collins, MiDDC executive director. “This art exhibition is a powerful way to shine the spotlight on the rich diversity of artists with disabilities and serve as a reminder that art has the power to break down barriers and connect people of all abilities.”

MiDDC and SAM are seeking a wide range of artwork that explores the theme of Disability Pride. Disability Pride is the idea that persons with disabilities should feel inspired and celebrate their identity as a person with a disability. Disability Pride recognizes that people with disabilities have unique experiences and perspectives that are valuable contributions to society.

All artwork that meets the submission criteria will be displayed in an online gallery on MiDDC’s website. Selected artwork will be displayed at an in-person pop-up exhibition at Lansing Shuffle, 325 Riverfront Drive, Lansing on July 11 from 3 p.m. to 8 p.m. The pop-up “Breaking Barriers” Art Exhibition will be open to the public.

To submit artwork for consideration, visit Michigan.gov/DDCouncil.