Icons – an exhibition about the right to exist features portraits of familiar icons and archetypes. The icons are portrayed here by a group that is rarely or never permitted to be seen, even though they have always been present among us. The 21 models from throughout Sweden have several things in common: ambitions, dreams, and Down syndrome.

The pictures portray universal dreams and desires to be part of popular culture, art or society. The dreams conveyed by the 21 models are relatable – who hasn’t at some point wanted to be queen, a police officer, an actor, or a mother?

The exhibition is about something bigger than photography. It is about the right to exist and to take up space, no matter who you are. We all need an icon to relate to.

It is also an exhibition about difficulties and challenges. When more people get to be seen, it creates a greater understanding of our differences. With all of our strengths and shortcomings, we can all contribute to a richer society. And to some extent, we are all different – indeed, we are all unique, but we are not as different as we may think.

The photography exhibition Icons was born from a unique collaboration between Fotografiska Museum and Glada Hudik Theatre. Production by: Helena Andersson and Linda Sandberg (concept and design), Emma Svensson (photography), Pär Johansson (artistic director of Glada Hudik Theatre), Pauline Benthede (Global Vice President of Artistic Direction and Exhibitions at Fotografiska) and Per Broman (founder of Fotografiska Museum). The exhibition is run by Glada Hudik Theatre.