By Zhuo’er Chen
On February 2, 2026, Duke Kunshan University (DKU) opened Thresholds and Threads: Disability and DKU Voices, an exhibition that encouraged reflection on the diverse experiences of disability within the DKU community and beyond. The event began with a welcome address from Professor Selina Lai-Henderson, followed by Professor Keping Wu’s brief introduction on the exhibition’s focus and its contribution to broader conversations on inclusion and diversity.
The curator Zhuo’er Chen (Class of 2028) introduced the concepts of Thresholds and Threads, explaining how the exhibition brings together moments of joy, frustration, vulnerability, and resilience from disabled lives, alongside reflections from non-disabled participants who engage with these experiences in different ways.
The exhibition features a range of artworks, including installations, experimental films, photography, paintings and poetry. The space was designed to encourage quiet reflection and slow engagement with the works. The exhibition did not ask visitors to respond with pity or inspiration but instead invited them to consider disability as part of the shared human experience.
After exploring the exhibition, visitors participated in a discussion where the curator and artists shared their insights on the creative processes behind their works. This conversation allowed for deeper engagement with the themes of the exhibition.
Thresholds and Threads will remain open until February 28, 2026.
