Brace Yourself (2023-2026)

Brace Yourself series combines alternative cine and photo film processes to explore the history of medical bracing, scoliosis and spinal deformities. I chose wet plate collodion as one of the mediums for this series as both scoliosis and wet plate share a unique trait of being irreplicable. Every scoliosis curve has features unique to each individual, just as each wet plate is one of a kind. No plates will ever be the same as results can vary depending on humidity, timing, chemistry, pouring, etc. and I am interested in the connection between historical photographic processes and the antiquated braces.

I made this series to create representation for those living with scoliosis. It is my hope that this work will inspire others living with scoliosis and help them feel less alone in their experience. Being told you are deformed takes a mental, physical and emotional toll. Many of us are conditioned to strive for an unrealistic and unattainable idea of “perfection”,  and living with a disability means your body is constantly under medical and societal scrutiny. The most important part of this project is subverting this narrative, reframing scoliosis and medical braces as something beautiful and captivating. Merging these concepts with the hand made image embraces imperfection in both form and theory. Brace Yourself explores the variations within every curvature and brace, and seeks to celebrate the unique beauty within this condition in contrast to the medical gaze that seeks to “fix” us.