1. Unseen (Deaf Space) Incloodu 2015 at Rich Mix roomfactory
Unseen (Deaf Space) Exhibition
This exhibition (consisting 5 photomontages and video projection) examines unpopular
changes the Deaf community has to face every generation or so. From a deaf architect’s
perspective, Martin addresses these issues, both historically and culturally, through
photographic media.
The concept of a Deaf Space today is becoming more ‘virtual’, an increasing hidden culture
within mainstream society, but community cohesion still remains important. Like many
minority cultures, it has to adapt to survive.
This clustered photomontage approach has been adopted as a metaphor for deaf people
trying to hold fragmented values together and the panoramas draw on the idea that deaf
people’s reliance on their vision is greater than that of the population as a whole.
The theme Unseen is principally addresses the idea that the Deaf Space is truly thriving
despite its fragility within a ‘tough’ society. Martin wants his work to demonstrate that we are
not really invisible; it’s just that it is easier for people to choose not to see us.