#ableismexists

[mycsnavelyphotography]

Art History and AI “Disability and Art”

Many influential artists have lived with cognitive or physical disabilities, which have profoundly shaped their artistic expressions and creative processes. For instance, Frida Kahlo, who suffered from severe injuries sustained in a bus accident, often incorporated her physical pain and emotional struggles into her vivid self-portraits, using art as a means of personal expression and healing. Similarly, Henri Matisse faced significant challenges after a cancer surgery left him requiring the use of a wheelchair; instead of viewing his limitations as obstacles, he adapted by exploring new media, such as his famous paper cut-outs, which allowed him to continue producing vibrant works of art despite his physical constraints. Chuck Close, who experienced severe paralysis due to a spinal cord injury, developed innovative techniques by using a grid method to create his large-scale portraits, demonstrating how ingenuity can triumph over physical limitations. ​These artists exemplify resilience and creativity, illustrating that disability can offer profound insights and unique perspectives that enrich the art world.​ Their ability to adapt their techniques and subjects reflects not just their artistic talent but also their determination to express their experiences through art. ​Digital technology, especially generative AI, serves as a vital resource that enhances productivity and creativity for artists with cognitive or physical disabilities.​ These tools not only help in overcoming physical barriers but also empower artists to express their unique perspectives and experiences more effectively. The integration of generative AI within the creative process is revolutionizing how artists engage with their work, leading to greater inclusivity in the art world.

1. Accessibility Through Generative AI Generative AI tools have been instrumental in making art more accessible to individuals with disabilities. They provide mechanisms for artists to create content through non-traditional methods, such as text-to-image generation, thereby facilitating artistic expression for those who cannot physically manipulate traditional art materials. For example, people with mobility challenges can describe their artistic ideas using words, which the AI then transforms into visual art, broadening the scope of artistic creation.

2. Empowering Expression and Creativity Generative AI allows artists with cognitive disabilities to express their thoughts and emotions more freely. By providing adaptive tools such as sequenced art instructions and visual prompts, these technologies help break down complex tasks into manageable steps. This simplification supports artists in fully engaging with their creative process, fostering a productive environment that encourages artistic exploration and expression.

3. Enhancing Traditional Techniques Artists with physical disabilities are increasingly utilizing digital tools to adapt traditional art forms. Software like Adobe Creative Suite offers features that can be controlled via voice commands, making it easier for artists with motor impairments to manipulate images without traditional input devices. Similarly, eye-tracking technology enables individuals who are paralyzed to create digital art through gaze control, showcasing how technology can redefine the artistic process.

4. Generative AI in Community Engagement Generative AI also facilitates collaboration among artists, allowing them to connect with peers and audiences regardless of physical limitations. This social dimension enhances creativity by promoting exchanges of ideas, techniques, and experiences, which enrich the overall artistic community. For instance, platforms that support collaborative art can involve artists with disabilities in group projects, fostering a sense of inclusion.

5. Overcoming Creative Blockages Digital technology can also help artists overcome mental barriers associated with creativity. Tools that generate content can serve as inspiration, providing prompts or starting points for those who may struggle with traditional brainstorming methods. As such, generative AI acts as a catalyst for creativity, enabling artists to explore new directions and ideas without the fear of judgment or physical limitations.

6. Future Innovations and Inclusivity Looking ahead, advancements in digital technology promise to break even more barriers for artists with disabilities. Enhanced features in AI and assistive technology could further incorporate user feedback to improve functionality and accessibility. This development will ensure that disabled artists not only participate in the art world but also lead innovation, thereby reshaping perceptions and practices within the field.

Digital technology, particularly through generative AI, has become a powerful ally for artists with cognitive and physical disabilities, enhancing their creative capabilities and fostering a more inclusive art community. This transformation underscores the importance of ongoing technological advancements to support and empower all artists, regardless of their physical or cognitive limitations.

​Research indicates that generative AI may play a significant role in improving the prognosis of individuals with degenerative health problems such as Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.​ The use of generative AI in creating visual art has been observed to enhance cognitive engagement, emotional expression, and overall quality of life, serving as a vital therapeutic tool for these individuals.

Recent studies have highlighted the potential for generative AI to enhance cognitive abilities in individuals with Multiple Sclerosis. AI tools are being developed to support the diagnosis and treatment monitoring of MS, which may also include aspects of cognitive function. Specifically, generative AI can facilitate artistic expression, allowing users to engage creatively, which has been linked to improved cognitive outcomes and emotional well-being. By utilizing generative AI in art therapy contexts, patients have reported greater engagement and stimulation of cognitive processes important for managing MS.

In the realm of Parkinson’s disease, generative AI has demonstrated promising effects on enhancing cognitive skills and boosting emotional expression among patients. Art creation facilitated by AI tools can stimulate cognitive engagement, which is crucial in mitigating cognitive decline associated with Parkinson’s. A study noted that engaging in visual art through generative AI could lead to improved emotional health and cognitive function by encouraging self-expression and creativity in ways that traditional methods may not allow. This interaction can help develop coping strategies that enhance patients’ overall prognosis.

Generative AI tools have shown significant promise in supporting individuals with Alzheimer’s disease. Research suggests that these tools can stimulate cognitive processes affected by Alzheimer's through creative engagement, potentially delaying cognitive decline. Utilizing generative AI to create art allows individuals to explore memories and emotions visually, providing them a means to communicate feelings and experiences that may be difficult to express verbally. This artistic engagement has been linked to improved cognitive capabilities and emotional well-being, suggesting a beneficial relationship between art creation and prognosis in Alzheimer’s patients.

Case studies illustrate the therapeutic benefits of generative AI art creation for users with degenerative health conditions. For example, participants in a study involving generative AI-created imagery reported enhanced communication and socialization through shared visual memories during art therapy sessions. This form of therapy utilized generative AI to generate images that reflect patients' memories, promoting cognitive engagement and emotional connection. Such initiatives highlight the therapeutic potential of AI in improving both cognitive function and emotional health.

While emerging studies demonstrate the positive effects of generative AI on cognitive health in individuals with degenerative diseases, further research is warranted to explore these dynamics comprehensively. Longitudinal studies measuring cognitive improvements resulting from consistent engagement with generative art tools could provide more extensive validation of these therapeutic applications. Understanding the methodologies behind effective AI art therapy interventions will be crucial in maximizing their benefits for users with degenerative health issues. Generative AI presents a promising avenue for improving cognitive outcomes in individuals facing degenerative health conditions. It not only enhances artistic expression but also fosters emotional well-being and cognitive engagement essential for managing conditions like Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. More robust research is needed to further harness these technologies effectively in therapeutic frameworks.

About the image: This image is a combination of generative AI and old fashioned digital elbow grease. It is an on point representation of the cognitive brain fog often presents with my Multiple Sclerosis…

[rovalis]

We were honored tonight to have a very special guest! Her name is Anastasia and this super awesome young lady came to celebrate her 21st birthday! She is also Utah Miss Amazing (provides opportunities to young women with disabilities!) she was so sweet and we think she deserved a shout out on our page! ♥️ Happy Birthday Anastasia!

#TheBarriersWeFace #AbleismExists #DisaBodyPosi #ShowMeYourPump #ActuallyAutistic #DeafTalent

[rebelwheelsnycpoetry]

Thank You

To all the lovely disabled kindred spirits, activists, and creative peoples, who helped me understand my disability better when doctors did not, who helped me to find my voice in my disability identity, who helped me to heal (still healing) & rise up from ableism, & lastly reminded me that unless the fight for disability liberation is intersectional, the disability community will never truly be free. Without their influence, this book would not exist as is.

(In no order of importance) Shelly Radford, Adam See, Annalisa Rivera, Shadow Lambertis, Ernie Matthews, Dov Zeller, Gregg Beratan, Zev Wagenberg & Arthur Congdon

To the intersectional disability Twitter community, w/ extra thanks to Alice Wong (Author, Creator of Disability Visibility & Co-Organizer #CripTheVote w/ Gregg & Andrew Pulrang), Vilissa Thompson (#DisabilityTooWhite), Dom Evans (#AbleismExists), Lawrence Carter-Long (#SayTheWord), Kendra Scalia (#SaveCDPA & #FairPay4HomeCare), Lizzie Kuhn (my former

PCA & fellow disabled activist-artist), Annie Segarra & Victoria Acuña Pakoti (whose creative activist online content inspires me – but not in an ableist way)

To Kimberlé Crenshaw who coined the term intersectionality, which radically changed my activism. To Audre Lorde who said “Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare.” which radically changed the way I viewed self-care, in a time where “injustice never rests, so either will we” was the motto of many activist movements I was in.

To musician & activist, Hozier whose poetry readings during the pandemic, reminded me of my love of poetry & writing. It was the poetry readings that inspired me to start writing poetry again,

including many of the poems in this zine.

And lastly to you for taking the time to read this book. May it be part of the collective effort to change the world.

[themadornithologist]

I wear this pin to every medical appointment I am able to. I really hope doctors take the time to read it - because most of them need to hear it!! Thanks @the.chronic.couple for making amazing spoonie swag. 💖 If you like, please read more about my battle against chronic illnesses: ➡️ Go Fund Me link in BIO: www.gofundme.com/HelpHannahSoar #pin #sepsissurvivor #hydratinitissuppurativa #skingrafting #trigeminalneuralgia #chronicpain #autoimmunedisease #surgery #sickandtiredofbeingsickandtired #ableismexists #butyoudontlooksick #suicideawarness #invisibleillness #spooniewarrior #fundraising #Paintudes #painrelief #facialpain #spoonies #neuroscience #actuallyautistic #spoonieblogger #braintumor #gofundme #raredisease #chronicallyill #strongwoman #ptsdawareness (at Eugene, Oregon) https://www.instagram.com/p/CTwF5S4r0ho/?utm_medium=tumblr

[mermaidgirl1990]

Again, some things are worth RE-SHARING! As someone who's Autistic, I LOVE this! 👏🏻❤️ #facebookstatus #facebookmemory #ableismexists #autismawareness https://www.instagram.com/p/Cn99UoMuB0l_J4jh0NiTnyKlyaSu7W4_kQk4_80/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[pinkfeathergurl]

When we focus on someone’s disability, we often overlook their abilities, beauty, and uniqueness. Once we learn to accept and love them for who they are, we subconsciously learn to love ourselves unconditionally. 💙

On International Day of Disabled Persons, we aim to promote the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society and development. 💙

[90363462]

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[dmnsqrl]

Posted @withregram • @pacingpixie I've used both before but am deffos leaning towards 'non-Disabled' now. What do we think? ID: There are two headings: 'able-bodied' and 'non-Disabled'. Underneath there is a list of features. On the 'able-bodied' side it says 'By focusing on how someone is 'bodied', can be seen to overlook non-physical disabilities', 'Supports the medical model of disability by considering the condition of the body', 'Doesn't align with identity or person-first language' and 'Doesn't centre Disabled people'. On the 'non-Disabled' side, it lists: 'By focusing on whether someone is Disabled, the term is broader, including all disabilities,' 'Supports the social model by considering membership of a social group not impairment,' 'Aligns with Identity-first language' and 'Centres Disabled people'. #Disability #DisabilityAwareness #DisabilityPride #Ableism #AbleismExists #DisabilityCommunity #LanguageMatters #KnowBetterDoBetter #CripplePunk #DisabilityStudies #ChronicIllness #ChronicallyAwesome #DisabledAndProud #TheFutureIsAccessible #BabeWithAMobilityAid #WheelchairDontCare #YoungAndDisabled #DiversityAndInclusion #Spoonie #SpoonieLife #Unchargeables #Inclusion #AccessibilityForAll #DisabilityIsDiversity #WordsMatter #AccessIsLove #DisabilityJustice #DisabilityAdvocacy #DisabilityActivism #Activism https://www.instagram.com/p/CTqPZ66pwOW9Wdb3kZeqcHf0mQpec6iSYpOip00/?utm_medium=tumblr

[crusnik85]

How many of you have been called out for even trying to mention that your ADHD is debilitating? It’s so frustrating because we don’t do it all the time but that one time we do, we get told off for “using it as an excuse”. 😫defeated sigh… #adhd #adhdawareness #adhdmemes #adhdwomen #adhdsupport #adhdlife ##adhdexplained #adhdisreal #adhdstruggles #adhdhelp #neurodiversity #mentalhealthawareness #mentalhealth #suaraadhd #ableism #ableismexists https://www.instagram.com/p/CQzgkHpJ_9R/?utm_medium=tumblr

[jesuissid]

“My advice to other disabled people would be, concentrate on things your disability doesn’t prevent you doing well, and don’t regret the things it interferes with. Don’t be disabled in spirit as well as physically.” -Stephen Hawking —— I’m guilty of using the term “Differently Abled” in the past. I recently learned it’s offensive because it implies that disabled people lack “able bodies” or the ability to use their bodies well. So I wanted to make a shirt for those who identify as “disabled.” The word doesn’t have to be a scarlet letter; it could be a title of power. In this world that’s built for neurotypicals and those without disabilities, consider the strength that a “disabled” person possesses. To live with SPD in an environment with bright lights and loud sounds. To communicate while deaf even though most people don’t know ASL. To know your surroundings even when blind. To make this world accessible - even when the opportunities are inaccessible. To me, there’s nothing more powerful than that. So, I designed this “Phenomenally Disabled” t-shirt. In the word “Disabled,” there’s an “I” that uses the infinity symbol, an “A” that’s in ASL, an “L” that’s in Braille, and a “D” that uses the disabled symbol. Like Mr. Hawking said, “Don’t be disabled in spirit as well as physically.” —— Description: Picture 1 - A girl in a wheelchair wearing a black t-shirt that reads, “Phenomenally Disabled.” Picture 2 - Front facing picture of the t-shirt. #InvisibleIllness #DeafTalent #ActuallyAutistic #DisaBodyPosi #AbleismExists #TheBarriersWeFace #neurodiversity #disabled #disability #wheelchair #disabilityawareness #chronicillness #inclusion #love #accessibility #paraplegic #motivation #amputee #cerebralpalsy #nevergiveup #accessible https://www.instagram.com/p/CMh6eUcBghP/?igshid=1v2qpqfm6sdgv

[a-spoonful-of-pain]

🔴Giving unsolicited medical advice is ableism🔴 Often, when disabled or chronically ill people disclose their disability, they are met with a chorus of "my aunt had that" and "have you tried this?" This isn't an okay response. With a lot of chronic illnesses in particular, there are myths surrounding treatments and cures. This isn't to say that there are no treatments, but there is not a universal treatment. Let's take yoga - for some people, yoga has helped to improve their flexibility and breathing, which has had a positive impact on their condition. For others, yoga has worsened their symptoms and caused flares or relapses. For some (like me), yoga is completely inaccessible and not an option. Suggesting treatments could put the person's health at risk, if this isn't safe for them and their body. It's also insulting - don't assume the person hasn't tried what is available to them (most of us have tried every accessible treatment under the sun). Many chronic illnesses and disabilities cannot be cured, and therefore your aunt most likely didn't have the same debilitating condition. If you're not that person's doctor, the safest option is to not offer any medical advice. It's rude, it's insulting and it can be dangerous. #Accessibility [ID: Text Reads " "Have you tried yoga?" Giving unsolicited medical advice is ableism We learn from our mistakes" #disability #disabilityrights #disabilityactivist #disabilityactivism #disabledandcute #ableism #wheelchair #disabilityinclusion #disabilitypride #disabilitylife #disabilityadvocate #wheelchairuser #chronicpain #fnd #chronicillness #fibromyalgia #crps #disabilitylife #ableismistrash #ableismexists #ipreview via @preview.app https://www.instagram.com/p/CKE8nvOjfrX/?igshid=2vep1woxx8r2

[roguemodelmanagementuk]

Posted @withregram • @littlepeachesburlesque My next show is @tootsandleigh on the 22nd of December! I'm doing something a little different this time. Not burlesque but still revealing. I'm going to be showing you a little piece of art straight from my heart created with the helping hands of the spoonie community. I'm really nervous, but also really excited! I hope to see you there!! Represented by @rogue_model_management Love and spoons Little Peaches 🧡 🍑 Photo by the wonderful @barbarossa_photo Makeup by the beautiful @makeupbyandreabaines #spokenword #tootsandleigh #spoonie #invisibleillness #disabilibabe #spoonielife #chronicpain #chronicillness #disabilityrights #disabilitypride #ableismexists #itsoktonotbeok #disabledperformer #littlepeaches #disabledpeoplearehot https://www.instagram.com/p/CI1YuALgqC7/?igshid=esoocb7gzjrl

[responsiveparenting]

“One of the issues that are rarely discussed with using phrases such as “use your words” is it is ableist language. Some people can’t speak or struggle to speak, at times. To make spoken words the only acceptable way to communicate does not allow for all the other ways people communicate to be honoured and practiced.” J. Milburn #responsiveparenting #jmilburn #childism #lifelonglearning #parentingisajourney #childrenareteachers #neurodiversity #ableism #ableist #ableismexists #asd #autismawareness #autismacceptance #ableismawareness #communication #nonverbalcommunication #babysignlanguage #signlanguage #neurodiverse #selectivemutism #howwespeaktochildren https://www.instagram.com/p/CEZIasEnaV0/?igshid=1ou3tbmvmuddv

[cheerful-chick-in-a-chair]

Never make assumptions — a person’s mobility aid doesn’t determine their abilities! ♿️ Repost from @rollinwiththebowlins & @colourblind_zebra 🦓🌻🧑🏻‍🦽 #PSA #ableism #ableismexists #disabledandcute #disabilityawareness #babeswithmobilityaids #wheelchairlife #wheelchair #wheelchairwoman #wheelchairs #wheelchairgirl #wheelchairlife♿ #rainbow #zebra #zebrastrong #ambulatorywheelchairuser #ambulatorywheelchairusersexist #CRPS #ehlersdanlossyndrome #ehlersdanlos #disabilityadvocate #disabilityrights #complexregionalpainsyndrome #raredisease #geneticdisorder #geneticdisease #chronicillness #chronicpain #chronicallyill #chronicallyfabulous (at Gilbert, Arizona) https://www.instagram.com/p/CEDfDznjOtV/?igshid=1lhf640jdmnho

[bunnyaimee]

Disabled is not a bad word.♿ We are all made up of many different things, & I am proud of every single part of me, & that includes my disability 😊 However it is by no means the only thing I am & I want people see all the amazing parts of me, not just my disability, not just my wheelchair. There are too many brilliant parts of all of us to just focus on one. Which is why normalizing disability is SO important. Noone looks at a person & brings up their walking ability, because it's "normal", and I am hopeful that one day disability can be seen the same way. 😁 Let me know below a few words to describe yourself! (& if you really want to, feel free to comment any words you think should be added to MY board!) 💜 Also if you have a board it would be awesome to see you do one too! 😃 use hashtag #MadeUpOfMore if you do! _____________________________ #Scrabble #scrabbleboard #scrabbletiles #identity #scrabbleletters #disabled #scrabbleboardgame #disabledisntadirtyword #disabledisnotabadword #disability #ableismexists #personality #traits #love #DisabledAndCute #disabledpeople #proud #disabledlookslikeme #somuchmore #iamdisabled #disabledandproud #hasbro #hasbrogames #Gaming #boardgames #gamenight #HarryPotter #wheelchairuser #normalisedisability https://www.instagram.com/p/CChhcgVnoFk/?igshid=178cec9p6pjih

[90363462]

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