$20,000 Awarded to Visionary Creators Transforming Representation in the Disability Community
February 01 2024 - 8:58AM
Getty Images (NYSE: GETY), a preeminent global visual
content creator and marketplace, together with Verizon, have
today announced the recipients of a $20,000 creative grant aimed at
highlighting the diversity, strength, and beauty of the disability
community through the lens of joy and empowerment.
Recent findings from Getty Images’ VisualGPS global
research underscore the need for improved representation, with only
1% of visuals in media and advertising showcasing individuals with
disabilities. This lack of representation, especially in
significant life moments, underlines the urgency for authentic
portrayals that resonate with the diverse realities of the
disability community.
"Stereotypes surrounding the physical beauty and capabilities of
the disability community impact the way they are perceived at every
level," said Dr. Rebecca Swift, Senior VP of Creative at
Getty Images. "We are excited to announce these grant
winners, who are reshaping the way disabilities are visualized in
broader society, challenging existing stereotypes, and fostering a
more inclusive representation."
"Expanding perceptions of beauty changes how people see
themselves," said Zachary Bastian, Senior Manager,
Strategic Alliances, Verizon. "Verizon proudly
collaborates with Getty Images on the Disability Collection,
celebrating positive depictions of disability in everyday life.
Judging these beautiful and joyful photographs was an incredible
honor. Congratulations to the grant winners and everyone who
participated."
The recipients of the grant are:
First Place (US $10,000)
Oaklee Thiele (she/her/hers) is a disability rights activist and
protest artist, focusing on capturing life from the perspective of
the disability community while addressing systemic discrimination
within academic and artistic institutions. Oaklee embraces
self-portraiture as a means of challenging stereotypes about
disabled life, and through this lens, aims to showcase the
creativity and resourcefulness of disabled individuals, emphasizing
that, for example, a wheelchair is not a hindrance but a valuable
tool enabling independent living.
Second Place (US $7,000)
Erena Shimoda, originally from Tokyo, is a highly skilled
underwater portrait photographer based in San Francisco. After
obtaining her Divemaster certificate, Shimoda began capturing
stunning underwater photographs in various locations. Following a
life-altering car accident that left her severely injured, Shimoda
initiated the Underwater Transformation project. Leveraging her
background in New Media and Fine Art, she employs total immersion
and portrait photography to help individuals overcome trauma,
including those dealing with physical disabilities, domestic
violence, and PTSD. Shimoda believes in the power of art to raise
awareness about critical issues and create a sense of
community.
Third Place (US $3,000)
Sam Tokita is a multi-talented individual renowned for her
expertise in Muay Thai and photography. Her diverse journey
includes engagements in theatre arts, makeup artistry, and video
production. Driven by a passion for connecting with people and
uncovering their stories, Sam focuses on building meaningful
relationships during her photo sessions. Her personal experiences,
navigating the intersections of sports, photography, and living
with a disability, have played a crucial role in overcoming
internalized ableism.
Recipients were selected by an esteemed panel of judges,
including:
- Mayaan Ziv: Founder CEO, AccessNow
- Megan Henshall: Strategic Lead, Global Event Solutions –
Google
- Susan Freundlich: Director of Development at DREDF – The
Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund
- Zachary Bastian: Senior Manager, Strategic Alliances at
Verizon
- Dr. Rebecca Swift: Senior VP of Creative at
Getty Images
This initiative builds on The Disability Collection, launched in
2018 by Verizon and Getty Images in collaboration with the National
Disability Leadership Alliance, aiming to authentically represent
people with disabilities in the media. Getty Images’ wider
grants program, established in 2004, has awarded over US $2.6
million, highlighting the company’s commitment to photography and
bringing attention to important stories that without funding, may
otherwise remain unseen.
Media contact:Alex Lazaroualex.lazarou@gettyimages.com
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