it’s me, hi

In our first exhibition, we ask viewers to see through appearances, labels and stereotypes, to the authentic individual through self-portraits. These paintings, created by the artists of Gateway Arts and the residents of 525 South Street, challenge viewers to look honestly at themselves and explore their own perceptions of people with differences. How can we be part of the solution to living with diversity? The hero or the anti-hero in our collective story?

about hyphen

1 in 5 people in the United States have learning or thinking differences. With a shared-purpose and vision, we break down barriers and create community where everyone is included and our differences are celebrated. Hyphen is where people of all abilities join together to demonstrate what creativity and inclusion truly means. Located on Cape Cod in the HyArts district of Hyannis, we are a community of multi-talented artists, performers, designers, makers, teachers, students, and friends who embrace what connects us all. Get involved and add your voice to our movement.

q & a with susan battista, creator-curator

q: Why the name Hyphen?

a: Quite literally, Hyphen is a sign used to join two words or thoughts together to create a new or enhanced meaning—it’s a connection. Hyphen is based on the premise that by joining together, we create something greater than ourselves. Hyphen is a community of multi-talented, differently-thinking, high-spirited people who are changing how differences are viewed. (We are located in Hyannis so there’s that connection to our name too.)

q: Why is Hyphen here?

a: The proverb “it takes a village” is especially meaningful to me and our decision to locate in Hyannis. All of us benefit from positivity, encouragement, and mentorship to reach our fullest potential in life. Hyphen is here in Hyannis to harness the power of this community which is welcoming, supportive, and inclusive.

q: What would you like people to know about Hyphen?

a: What started as a vision has grown into a community of believers. Hyphen will continually build friendship, partnership, and mentorship for our community of extraordinary individuals.

q: What’s next for Hyphen

a: Hyphen is always looking ahead and moving forward. We have no preconceived notions of where Hyphen may go and what Hyphen may do—anything is possible.