M.E. Deaf Like…

This installation features artwork created by young Deaf and Hard of Hearing artists from the Gov. Baxter School of the Deaf and Maine Educational Center for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing program at East End Community School (GBSD/MECDHH), highlighting various animal motifs alongside a flower. The young artists explored the language and cultural norms of the deaf community, drawing parallels with their lived experience and the diverse animals found in Maine. Additionally, they learned to craft their pieces using recycled materials.

This project was organized by Emily Blachly (Maine Deaf Arts )and presented in conjunction with the NEA Big Read: Deaf Republic.

Why is the title “M.E. Deaf Like”? American Sign Language (ASL) is a cherished language within the Deaf community in the United States. It has its own unique grammar structure that differs significantly from English. For instance, while we ask in English, “Have you seen a whale?” in ASL, we sign “WHALE YOU SEE FINISH” with raised eyebrows to indicate a question. The students and Emily Blachly played with the phrasing, resulting in the title “ME DEAF LIKE” which would translate to “I am deaf like…”.

The creative team for this project includes the young artists— Bella, Gemma, Leigha, Myles, Sean, and Zoey— who were guided by wonderful adults: Joanie Grondin, the teacher for the Deaf, and Emily Blachly, the artist and ASL specialist, with tremendous help from the ed techs: Kathie, Kendall, and Monique.

This display would not have been possible without the support and collaboration from the Maine Deaf Arts.

This event is part of the Big Read series, presented by SPACE Gallery and Mechanics’ Hall. NEA Big Read is a program of the National Endowment for the Arts in partnership with Arts Midwest.

Maine Deaf Arts is a group dedicated to supporting the Deaf and signing communities through creative expression. Over the past three years, Maine Deaf Arts has invited renowned Deaf artists from outside the state to teach and collaborate on arts projects with the Deaf community here. With public donations for their work, they can continue to bring inspiring Deaf role models to Maine.