Discussion to include art exhibition, screening of two short films

The Museum of disABILITY History is pleased to welcome the latest speakers in its Person First Forum series: Carrie Marcotte, director of Starlight Studio and Art Gallery, Teaching Artist Maggie Parks and six participating artists. The event, entitled "Six Minds - Two Ways to Beauty" will take place on Saturday, September 13, 2014 from 1 p.m. to 2:30p.m. at 3826 Main Street in Buffalo.

Marcotte, Parks and the artists will host a panel discussion concerning their creative work with local media arts company, Squeaky Wheel. Two short films, which are the result of this partnership, will be screened. An exhibition of student art will also be on display.

Supported by a grant from the Arts Service Initiative of Western New York, Starlight Studio and Art Gallery worked alongside Squeaky Wheel Film and Media Center to create two portraits in documentary film. The films, which highlight artists from Starlight Studio, were created through collaborative effort by six Starlight participants. Production included not only filming, but also storyboarding, sound editing and interviewing. The process took them on a journey of self-discovery which resulted in two honest, reflective portraits of their fellow artists.

The Person First Forum is a free event. Regular admission applies to those who wish to tour the Museum of disABILITY History, which is open from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information or to register for the event, call 716-629-3626.

Starlight Studios, a vibrant studio and gallery located in downtown Buffalo, supports adults with disabilities in their artistic development. The Starlight Program is funded by the NYS Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OWPDD) with additional support from the John R. Oishei Foundation, the James H. Cummings Foundation and the Castellani Family in memory of Eleanor Castellani.

The Museum of disABILITY History, a project of People Inc., is dedicated to the collection, preservation, and display of artifacts relating to the history of people with disabilities. The mission is to tell the story of the lives, triumphs and struggles of people with disabilities as well as society’s reactions. The Museum of disABILITY History, located at 3826 Main Street in Buffalo, NY, offers educational exhibits, programs and activities that expand community awareness.