Mimi’s Family: one family’s story of transition and unconditional love†

Abstract

ABSTRACT This case study describes the process of creating Mimi’s Family: Photography by Matthew Clowney, a groundbreaking art exhibit for children and their families featuring photographs of a family with a transgender grandparent. Developed by Boston Children’s Museum, the exhibit was designed to help trans families feel welcome in the museum and spark empathy in visitors who may not (to their knowledge) have transgender people in their lives. This topic is unique for a children’s museum setting. Starting with a genuine collaboration between the artist and the family and continuing with the support of community partnerships, the exhibit development team created an accurate and respectful exhibit. Mimi’s Family gives children and their families a safe and supportive way to talk about what it means to be transgender and what it means to be a family.