Deaf Creative Arts

Deaf creative arts has a long, rich history that deserves a steady spotlight. The use of sign language and the unique experience Deaf people have on Earth gave rise to an expanding artistic canon that is visual, gestural, spatial, and tactile. At Gallaudet University, there is a diverse range of art created by Black, Indigenous, and Peoples of Color, Deaf members of the Lesbian, Gay, Transgender, Intersex, and Queer communities, and the DeafBlind community, all within an international scope. 

The Office of Placemaking strives to provide ample opportunities for further production of the unique artistic styles that Deaf people have to offer. In collaboration with Student Engagement and Learning, Campus Design and Planning, the Art and Design department, the Office of Placemaking has hosted Mural Festivals at Gallaudet University where murals have been created on campus in the Hansen Plaza Tunnel. Since 2023, four murals have been created with two underway for 2025. The Mural Festival has been an avenue for students to create art based on selfhood and Deaf pride all while beautifying the university campus. The Mural Festival captures the collaborative and generative ventures that the Office of Placemaking intentionally produces, with a particular focus on empowering emerging Deaf student artists. 

The Office of Placemaking’s efforts in increasing artistic ventures among Deaf artists go beyond the parameters of Gallaudet University, serving as a resource and referral source for Deaf artists to take on artistic projects in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. As a result of the Office of Placemaking’s collaborative efforts, Yiqiao Wang’s “The Deaf AAPI Experience” mural was painted on the Union Market building next to Gallaudet University. More is to come with the vision of the Office of Placemaking increasing opportunities and visibility for Deaf artists.