Re-Presenting Disability

This insightful book examines the representation of disability in museums, highlighting the need for inclusive narratives in Re-Presenting Disability.

The book Re-Presenting Disability delves into the complexities of how disability is represented within museums and galleries, an area that has garnered significant academic interest in recent years. As cultural institutions strive to become more inclusive, this volume highlights the critical need for practitioners to address the representation of disabled individuals and their narratives, which have often been overlooked or misrepresented in traditional displays. Through a collection of insightful contributions, the book provides a platform for discussing the pressing issues surrounding disability representation in the cultural sector.

In Re-Presenting Disability, twenty researchers and practitioners from diverse backgrounds come together to share their perspectives on the cultural representation of disabled people. The contributors explore the historical context of disability in museum collections, examining both the absence of disability narratives and the emerging practices that seek to challenge conventional portrayals. These discussions not only illuminate the existing debates in identity politics and social agency but also address the responsibilities of museums in shaping public perceptions of disability.

The book further investigates the implications of contemporary collecting practices and the dilemmas faced by curators and educators in creating inclusive displays. By engaging with both disabled and non-disabled audiences, Re-Presenting Disability aims to foster a deeper understanding of how interpretive interventions can reshape dominant narratives and promote a more equitable representation of disability in cultural institutions.