The Temporarily Abled Bodied (TAB) archive explores the social construction of able-bodiedness and highlights the fluidity and impermanence of physical ability, challenging the societal assumption that able-bodiedness is a permanent state. The archive reflects on the experiences of individuals who are or may become disabled due to illness, injury, or aging, emphasizing the importance of understanding disability not as a fixed condition but as a potential aspect of all human experience. Through its content, the archive calls attention to the need for inclusive representation, advocating for a more nuanced, empathetic approach to disability that acknowledges the temporary and often unpredictable nature of physical health.

Instructions to Participate in The Disability Visibility Publication and Archive

Welcome to The Disability Visibility Publication and Archive! This project is a socially engaged visual arts initiative designed to elevate the voices of differently abled individuals. Your participation will help us showcase the diversity of experiences of those with diagnosed or self-identified disabilities. Please follow the steps below to contribute your story.

Participation Google Form

Instructions:

Step 1: Understand the Project Goal

  • Objective: This project aims to create a powerful archive and publication that reflects the lived experiences of individuals with disabilities. By showcasing a spectrum of ability and the impact (dis)ability has on everyone.

  • Your Contribution: As a participant, you will fill in the blank space on a screen-printed shirt with your self-identified disability, photograph yourself wearing the shirt, and share your image along with a signed photo release form.

Step 2: Receive Your Shirt and Materials

Once you’ve registered, you will receive a package containing:

  1. A screen-printed shirt with the phrase “My Body Is Out For Repairs.”

  2. A fabric pen to personalize the shirt by filling in the blank space with your self-identified disability or description of your experience with (dis)ability.

Step 3: Personalize Your Shirt

  1. Fill in the Blank: Using the fabric pen provided, write your self-identified disability or any words that best reflect your experience with (dis)ability. You can write a single word, a sentence, or even a phrase—this space is yours to fill with what represents you.

  2. Be Creative: You can also add any personal symbols, drawings, or designs that express your identity and story.

Step 4: Photograph Yourself

  1. Capture the Moment: Once you've personalized your shirt, photograph yourself wearing it in your everyday environment—whether at home, work, or any place that feels meaningful to you.

  2. Make It Authentic: We encourage you to show yourself as you are, in a setting that represents your life and experience with (dis)ability.

  3. Take Multiple Shots: You can take more than one photo to find the best angle or setting. Just make sure the writing on the shirt is clearly visible.

Step 5: Complete the Photo Release Form

  • Consent to Share: Along with your photo, you’ll need to fill out and sign a photo release form to grant permission for your image to be archived online, included in publications, and featured in exhibitions. The form can be downloaded from our website and submitted with your google form.

  • Important Note: Your image will be used to amplify the voices and experiences of people with disabilities, and your consent ensures we can legally share your photograph in the archive and public spaces.

Step 6: Submit Your Contribution

  1. Return the Materials:

    • Once you've taken your photo and signed the release form, please send the following back to us:

      • The photograph (via email or the provided online submission portal)

      • The signed photo release form

Step 7: Your Contribution in the Archive

  • Archived Online: Your photograph will be archived online in a public-facing collection.

  • In Publications and Exhibitions: The images may also be used in future publications, exhibits, and other media that celebrate the diversity of abilities and the significance of the disability experience.

Step 8: Stay Engaged

  • Follow the Project: Stay updated on the progress of the project and upcoming publications or exhibitions by visiting this website or following us on social media @ptpress.

  • Get Involved Further: If you wish to contribute more, participate in events, or share additional thoughts, we welcome your continued engagement.