Permanent 591 Exhibition: Special Needs by Wallace Rollins




In 1949 the city of Baltimore formed an association that provided services for children with intellectual disabilities and their parents (http://www.baltimorearc.org/). The association offered a variety of services including dispersing public information, parent counseling and discussions, training and activity centers as well as residential facilities for semi-independent disabled citizens. In the 70’s Wallace Rollins was asked to take photographs of the students involved in various activities for a brochure about the history and mission of the association.  


I first saw some of the pictures presented today over five years ago. Since I teach students with disabilities this series of pictures has always touched me deeply.  I am pleased to present these photographs by Wallace Rollins on 591 and also thrilled that it will become a permanent exhibition. -R    

Comments

Mr Urbano said…
There is a great value in these pictures - important as documentary work and visually very strong. It was not until 2008 that the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities entered into force. I think it is appropriate to remind about the general principles of the Convention:

Respect for inherent dignity, individual autonomy including the freedom to make one's own choices, and independence of persons;

Non-discrimination;

Full and effective participation and inclusion in society;

Respect for difference and acceptance of persons with disabilities as part of human diversity and humanity;

Equality of opportunity;

Accessibility;

Equality between men and women;

Respect for the evolving capacities of children with disabilities and respect for the right of children with disabilities to preserve their identities.
V said…
Totally agree with Mr Urbano :)
br said…
excellent. It is great to see this work that promotes a humane humanity. great!!!
Phil Decker said…
Thanks for sharing this work. I'm always impressed with how Wallace combines gesture, light, composition to capture moments that tell a story, in a touching and dignified way.
Mikael said…
Each and every photo has a story in itself and together it is outstanding work