A photographic exhibition celebrating women with disabilities in Cape Town is open to the public this month. This powerful exhibition highlights stories of resilience, confidence and individuality.

A photographic exhibition celebrating women with disabilities

Cape Town’s contemporary art space 33BREE is hosting**” As She Is”**, the first African edition of the internationally recognised Bold Beauty Project. This is a global initiative that uses photography to challenge perceptions and promote inclusion.

The exhibition features 17 women from across the Western Cape, photographed by some of South Africa’s leading photographers. Each portrait is accompanied by the woman’s personal story, offering visitors a unique glimpse into her life, identity and journey.

The internationally recognised Bold Beauty Project

Originally founded in the United States by Shelly Baer and Dr Eva Ritvo, the Bold Beauty Project has become an international movement that celebrates women living with disabilities. It encourages broader conversations around dignity, visibility and representation. The project was recently showcased at the 61st Venice Biennale. There, it brought global attention to its message of inclusion.

A photographic exhibition celebrating women with disabilities

Acclaimed Bold Beauty Project Makes African Debut in Cape Town

For its South African debut, the exhibition has been uniquely reimagined through a local lens. Co-curated with renowned disability activist Marlene le Roux, “As She Is” focuses not on disability itself, but on the strength, beauty and humanity of the women featured. The exhibition encourages audiences to see the person before the label and challenges traditional ideas of beauty and representation.

A photographic exhibition celebrating women with disabilities Jaret Loggenberg, Managing Director and co-founder of The Artists Gallery and 33BREE, says the project aims to spark meaningful dialogue. At the same time, it wants to inspire visitors long after they leave the gallery. The exhibition was developed through close collaboration between photographers, stylists and models. Each story is also told with authenticity and respect.

Exhibition Details

Exhibition: As She Is – The Bold Beauty Project
Venue: 33BREE, 33 Bree Street (Entrance on Waterkant Street), Cape Town CBD
Dates: 6 to 29 August 2026
Admission: Free to the public

A photographic exhibition celebrating women with disabilities

The non-profit exhibition forms part of Cape Town’s cultural calendar during Women’s Month and seeks to celebrate diversity as an essential part of society. Through large-scale photography and personal storytelling, it creates space for reflection, understanding and connection.