Emma Widmar, the 21st ArtRoot Writer-in-Residence, is using her tenure to raise awareness of chronic conditions and disabilities. As part of her work, she invites the community to be a part of the change that is visible by participating in her community project, Visible Racine.
This community project invites anyone who self-identifies as disabled to join us at The Inclusive Bean, 1930 Albert St., from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on September 19, 2026.
Visible Racine brings awareness to the disability community.
At the event, Emma will be photographing individuals. Later, their photos will be printed and on display at the coffee shop.
There will be an ongoing gallery available at The Inclusive Bean. When stopping in for a coffee or a bite to eat, the photos will be visible.
The Inclusive Bean is a non-profit coffee shop that employs individuals with disabilities, offering an inclusive work environment while teaching them valuable life skills.
All are welcome
Emma will be photographing anyone who identifies as being disabled. An official diagnosis from a professional is not required to participate. No proof of disability will be needed.
All ages are welcome to participate in this event. Disabilities can be physical or mental. They can impact someone’s cognitive, developmental, visual, hearing, speech/language, intellectual, neurodevelopmental, and other functions. Service animals are welcome. People with invisible illnesses or chronic conditions can also participate. People with mental health conditions are welcome too.
“Come as you are to this event, which aims to empower people to see beyond someone’s physical being,” says Widmar.
Descriptions accompany photos
Emma asks that participants write a small description of how individuals identify themselves beyond their disability, in addition to having their photo taken.
These short biographies will be on display next to the photos at The Inclusive Bean. By showcasing a description alongside the photo, the world can see how those with disabilities are more than a diagnosis.
A Google Form is available to use ahead of the event and will be available to use at the event. In addition, people are welcome to fill out Emma’s form in person on paper.
If you are unable to write, use a computer, or need additional help with forming a biography to coincide with your portrait, Emma is available to help. Emma will have a computer on site to use to access the Google Form, or it is available online here.
Guests planning to attend the event can fill out the form ahead of the event too.
The project is flexible, and people are encouraged to share what speaks to them. Parents and caretakers are also encouraged to assist.
Emma’s empowerment
As an individual with a disability that is often invisible, Emma has grown to understand the importance of self-identity. Learning to embrace her disability while acknowledging the other qualities that make her who she is helps her promote balance as a disabled person.
The images will show who Racine’s disabled community is on the outside, but their writing will define themselves beyond what the eye can see.
Visible Racine will help foster support for a local nonprofit that supports the disability community.
Visible Racine will create awareness about disabilities. Additionally, it builds a deeper understanding of how everyone endures a battle that isn’t visible yet is a valid and real experience.
This collaboration will unite a diverse group of individuals, including those of different abilities. It will spark my own creativity and the creativity of our community. Emma hopes to emphasize the beauty in our differences through this community project, as part of the ArtRoot Writer-in-Residence program.
Emma’s experiences as a disabled person have taught her that while certain events and experiences can aid in shaping who someone is, each individual is responsible for defining themselves.
Together, Racine can define who it is.
Have questions about the event? Contact Emma Widmar at 262-664-2059 or emailing emmawidmarwrites@gmail.com.
ArtRoot Writer-In-Residence 