In an age of individuality and creativity, the ‘make up my story’ project creates a platform for people with learning difficulties or disabilities from Jugend am Werk. Here they have the chance to share their unique stories in an inspiring way and immerse themselves in a role that fulfils their wishes.
By supporting the ‘make up my story’ initiative, BIPA not only wants to emphasise the diversity of human experiences, but also create a space in which everyone can express their own individuality.
‘For us, the partnership with Jugend am Werk is more than just a collaboration - it is a symbol of inclusion, collaboration and the beauty of diversity. Thanks to the help of our customers, our BIPA X-MAS biscuit stamp fundraising campaign has enabled us to donate 5,000 euros to the 'make up my story' project. We are proud to be part of this supportive network,’ says Markus Geyer, Managing Director of BIPA.
Personal stories in the spotlight
The centrepiece of ‘make up my story’ beats to the beat of diversity. The individual wishes, ideas and personal stories of the artists in the day structure take centre stage. The participants immerse themselves in their own roles and show how they experience and express their dreams and goals. This transformation from inner feelings to outer expression is the centrepiece of the project. The aim is not only to strengthen the participants' self-esteem and improve their quality of life, but also to promote a deeper understanding of individuality and greater empathy within society.
Shootings are currently taking place as part of the project, with ten members of Jugend am Werk taking part. BIPA make-up artists and photographer Yvonne Kaufmann are working hand in hand to professionally realise the participants' individual ideas and capture their unique personal transformation. The costumes - designed by Art for Art - and the props - provided by the Burgtheater Wien - create an additional artistic dimension. The shoots are carried out in a supportive environment to offer the ten Jugend am Werk artists an unforgettable experience.
The result of this creative collaboration will be presented at a vernissage in the werd:art gallery in autumn 2024. Visitors will have the opportunity to experience and celebrate the impressive transformations and stories of the participants.
‘The project opens up a new field for the participants. It's great for each individual to have time to intensively engage with their stories, dreams and wishes and to be accompanied by professionals in order to ultimately mould them into the art of photography,’ says Elisabeth Kuntner, Head of the Im Werd workshop & gallery café werd:art at Jugend am Werk.
BIPA and Jugend am Werk have been working together successfully since 2017. As part of this partnership, around 65 people are involved in a project to produce bonus boxes. These boxes are available in BIPA shops for Ös 250. In 2022 alone, over 100,000 BIPA boxes were put together by people with learning difficulties or disabilities at Jugend am Werk.
