Art from artists with disabilities in the spotlight at PAMA this fall

Unveiling Ability: Empowerment Through Art is on display now

By ZACHARY ROMAN

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Inclusive art is taking centre stage at a local gallery this fall. 

Unveiling Ability: Empowerment Through Art is the Peel Art Gallery, Museum and Archives' (PAMA) latest exhibition. It showcases inspiring artwork created by artists with disabilities and serves to promote inclusivity and community engagement. 

In a variety of different media, artists in the show channel their personal experiences and challenges into their work. Each piece of art tells a story about how art has inspired the artists, and is a testament to the contributions of people with disabilities to the arts. 

The show is on now at PAMA, located at 9 Wellington Street East in Brampton, and can be viewed until March 16. 

Amy Dunlop, a museum curator at PAMA, said the exhibit is inspiring and empowering. 

“A rich, colourful exhibition, Unveiling Ability: Empowerment Through Art is more than meets the eye,” said Dunlop. “Partnering with Brampton Caledon Community Living, this exhibition provides an opportunity to amplify artists living with disabilities. On display are sixty art pieces from fabric wall hangings and quilts to mixed media, sculptures and paintings on canvas.”

Salma Hossain, a partner of the exhibit, explained the idea for the show started with the perseverance of five quilting artists who wanted their work to be part of a community exhibition event. 

“With time, other artists joined in the same mission… this exhibit at PAMA is a depiction of empowerment of artists, who deserve recognition of their exceptional talents,” said Hossain.

Susana York is another partner of the exhibit.

“Unveiling Ability is an opportunity for artists to be recognized in their community for their exceptional gifts and talents,” she said. “We appreciate PAMA highlighting the diversity of the community through their various art exhibitions, inclusive of citizens with disabilities.”