New Exhibition ‘Centre of Attention’ Uses Prosthetics to Create Art

An exciting new exhibition that uses the unique medium of prosthetics to create highly stylised art pieces is being brought to the city by Artlink as part of Square Peg, a diversity and disability arts programme funded by Hull UK City of Culture 2017 and backed by its Principal Partner Spirit of 2012.

Working in collaboration with The Alternative Limb Project, Fly Girl Films, Kelly Knox and Omkaar Kotedia, Centre of Attention will showcase cutting edge prosthetic limbs, film, and photography. It opens on Friday 3 November and will be on display every weekend through the month at Hull’s Princes Quay until Sunday 26 November.

The Alternative Limb Project, founded by Sophie Oliveira Barata, has worked throughout 2017 to design and build three new prosthetic arms for fashion model and disability activist, Kelly Knox. The limbs are based on Kelly’s interests, values, and aspirations.

Speaking about the project, Sophie said:

“This project has really enabled us to think creatively about the body, personal expression and what it is to stand out and be different. This is an opportunity to redefine the body and push the boundaries of alternative prosthetics.”

As with fashion, where physical appearance becomes a form of self-expression, Sophie sees the potential of prosthetics as an extension of the wearer’s personality. Merging the latest technology with traditional crafts, Sophie’s creations explore themes of body image, modification, evolution and transhumanism, whilst promoting positive conversations around disability and celebrating body diversity.

There are often limited, and in many places zero options available to those of us who require adaptive clothing, equipment or prosthetics. Centre of Attention seeks to highlight the need for more fashionable adaptive clothing by showing the public exactly what can be achieved. This exhibition challenges perceptions of disability and encourages open conversations between disabled and non disabled communities.

Martin Green, Director of Hull 2017, said:

“This is an excellent project that I hope will challenge people’s perceptions and raise awareness of an issue that many won’t be aware of. It also showcases the incredible creativity, skills and ingenuity of those involved with The Alternative Limb Project.”

Throughout the month, there will also be talks relating to the exhibition by Sophie Oliveira Barata and Kelly Knox.

Exhibition: Centre of Attention

Location: Princes Quay, 2nd floor

Preview night: Thursday 2 November 6-8pm

Exhibition dates: Friday 3 November – Sunday 26 November