Developmental Disabilities Not Bar To Creativity: CP Unlimited, National Lighthouse Museum Present Photography Exhibit

NY Based Organization CP Unlimited Teams with The National Lighthouse Museum To Debut Photo Gallery Crafted by Individuals with Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities

This partnership and event is important because it advances the cause of inclusivity through the lens- as it were- of creativity. Further, the exhibition spotlights the role of Staten Island as a place where people with disabilities are integrated and celebrated throughout many communities. To see Through the Lens is to experience the true magic of the human ability to persevere and the power of sharing diverse perspectives.

• The exhibition is comprised of images captured, developed, and edited by three photographers with disabilities
• The Progressive Visions Photo Club has been around for 27 years and helps people with I/DD develop their personal reliance and abilities
• The Club has had gallery exhibitions previously, but this is the first museum exhibition
• The proceeds from the exhibition will benefit both the National Lighthouse Museum and CP Unlimited

STATEMENTS:

• “You make people laugh, you make people happy [when you take their photo.]” – Frank Ferebee, Photographer
• “The photographers are inspiring, their talent and potential is endless!” – Jim Interlicchio, Director, Progressive Visions Photo Club
• “This is a remarkable exhibition, with a unique perspective that often goes unseen. To have three of the people we support be able to share their abilities and vision is motivating to everyone at CP Unlimited.” – Joseph M. Pancari, President & CEO, CP Unlimited

CP Unlimited, a NYC based organization that provides services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), and The National Lighthouse Museum, a leading maritime sentinel cultural center, are unveiling a new photo exhibition at the museum produced through the eyes of CP’s Progressive Visions Photo Club. The exhibit will be open from February 4 – March 3, 2024.

“Through the Lens: New Images from the Progressive Visions Photo Club” features around a dozen images of local monuments, exteriors, and permanent displays captured during excursions in late 2023.

The Progressive Visions Photo Club is comprised of creative amateur photographers with I/DD who shoot and develop their own images with a deep love of the arts and community engagement.

Attendees at the opening event including Asm. Pirizzolo. Image Credit – CP Unlimited

In attendance: Joseph Pancari, CEO and President of CP Unlimited, and Elected officials Sam Pirozzolo, Assemblyman (D-63), Michael Reilly, Assemblyman (D-62), and Edwina  F. Martin, the Staten Island Public administrator, were in attendance to share remarks and speak to media. The event was held at The National Lighthouse Museum, 200 The Promenade at Lighthouse Point, Staten Island, NY 10301

About CP Unlimited

CP (Constructive Partnerships) has helped people with intellectual and developmental disabilities achieve fulfilling lives since 1946 through Residential, Health Care, Day Habilitation,  and additional services in the five boroughs of New York City and Hudson Valley region.

Banner Image: Lighthouse  model photograph by Frank Ferebee.  Image Credit – CP Unlimited