OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. (June 3, 2024) – Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) and The Inasmuch Foundation Gallery are hosting the “Portraits of Dementia” photography exhibit through June 20.
Organized by the Mid-America Arts Alliance, “Portraits of Dementia” and the accompanying book, “The Day after Yesterday: Resilience in the Face of Dementia,” destigmatize those living with dementia through moving portraits and stories of lives well lived.
Artist Joe Wallace has been a portrait photographer and storyteller for 20 years. Like many, Wallace has a deeply personal connection with dementia, as it has affected his maternal grandfather, maternal grandmother and, in recent years, his mother.
Through his work, Wallace shows not only dementia’s fear, loss and despair, but also the love, connection, dignity and powerful humanity that always remain — in the subjects, in the care partners, and in the families and communities. By showing the whole story, Wallace hopes to evolve the narrative and create positive social change.
“People living with dementia must be seen as people first, not as their disease,” said Beth Soltzberg, director of Alzheimer’s/Related Disorders Family Support Program, Jewish Family and Children’s Service. “Public recognition of the enduring humanity of those who live with disabilities, including cognitive disabilities, will decrease fear and stigma. Joe’s vivid photographs remind us of our shared humanity as well as the uniqueness of each person.”
More than 50 million people are living with dementia globally. In the U.S., 1 in 3 seniors suffer with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia at the time of their death.
“It is my hope that my story and the stories of others just like me will start a conversation and end the stigma that comes along with this disease. Just maybe I can bring a new face to Alzheimer’s so people know that it can happen to anybody, not just the elderly,” said Carrie Salter-Richardson, diagnosed with dementia.
OCCC’s Inasmuch Foundation Gallery is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
About Oklahoma City Community College
Since its inception in 1972, Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) has been the heartbeat of the metro, dedicated to empowering learners and strengthening communities. Serving more than 18,000 students, we are committed to producing leaders. “Student Success, Community Enrichment” is our mission, and we offer more than 87 degree and certificate programs that provide a foundation for further education or immediate career readiness. We remain dedicated to providing accessible, affordable, high-quality education that equips students to achieve personal and professional goals. OCCC is more than an institution; we are a community catalyst, fostering growth and success in our city, our workforce, and the lives of our students. Discover your potential at OCCC, where your future is our purpose. Visit us at occc.edu.
