Voyeur or Visionary

Exploring Representation of Intellectual Disability in Diane Arbus’ Untitled Series

Authors

  • Sophia Kaiser

Abstract

This piece explores and analyzes Diane Arbus' infamous Untitledseries, a collection of photographs documenting institutions for individuals with disabilities in the late 1960s. While immense controversy surrounds her work, this paper argues that although there are shortcomings in these images and her oeuvre as whole, the Untitled series is ultimately on the right side of history.

For additional context, listen to the author's reflection on the piece below.

Author Biography

  • Sophia Kaiser

    Sophie, a member of the class of 2023, is from Littleton, Colorado and loves the state so much that all her friends here make fun of her for it. Besides talking too much about Colorado, Sophie loves going to concerts, making Spotify playlists, rock climbing at a very beginner level, and hanging out with her friends in the Next Steps program. Sophie also hopes to become a Speech Language pathologist one day.

Author's Reflection

Downloads

Published

2020-11-03

How to Cite

Voyeur or Visionary: Exploring Representation of Intellectual Disability in Diane Arbus’ Untitled Series. (2020). SCAFFOLD: A SHOWCASE OF VANDERBILT FIRST-YEAR WRITING, 2. https://ejournals.library.vanderbilt.edu/index.php/UWS/article/view/4981