The Sixty Four Project, a dynamic art installation and exhibit celebrating women's beauty, diversity, and strength while promoting realistic body imagery, is on display January 18 through 20 in conjunction with the Vermont Burlesque Festival.
Conceived and engineered by my friend, Fairfax, Vermont, resident Mark Hitchcox, The Sixty Four Project features photographs and testimonials of 64 women, including breast cancer survivors. The group reflects a diverse range of ages, ethnicities, and body types.The centerpiece of the exhibit is an installation of rotating cubes, each featuring a photograph of a volunteer model's breast. As the cubes randomly turn, different right and left breasts are displayed, highlighting the beautiful diversity of women's bodies.
"Scars don't define me, my age doesn't define me, how my body looks doesn't define me, I'm still an attractive person worthy of love and affection," said Moxie Blue, a breast cancer thriver, burlesque performer, and producer from Seattle, Washington.
"Growing up, I always thought something was wrong with me because my boobs didn't look like the ones I saw in the movies," said a 25-year-old model who chose to remain anonymous.
"We need to help the younger generations know that all bodies are unique and beautiful," said participant Jamie, age 45.
Mark's grandmother, mother, and sister were all treated for breast cancer. His goal with this exhibit is to honor them by raising funds for breast cancer research while promoting breast cancer awareness.
Admission to the exhibit and the opening reception is free. Proceeds from donations and a basket raffle will go to the University of Vermont Cancer Center.
The opening reception with light snacks and cash bar, sponsored in part with gratitude by the Grace Family of Fairfax, Vermont, is from 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 18, with brief remarks at 6 p.m.
Dates & Times:
Thursday, Jan. 18, 5 to 8 p.m.
Friday, Jan. 19, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 20, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Location:
Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain
Lake Champlain Room
60 Battery Street
Burlington, VT 05401
Enter through the parking garage, as the hotel lobby is under renovation.
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