Did you know almost 20 percent of children are born with dyslexia? In fact, dyslexia has become a common condition and many parents, educational institutions and even the U.S. government are advocating awareness about dyslexia.
Unfortunately, the sad reality about dyslexia is only a few is knowledgeable about this learning disability and the stigma associated with it continues to persist. So, what exactly is dyslexia?
What Is Dyslexia?
Mayo Clinic defined dyslexia (aka "reading disorder or disability") as a learning disorder that affects the way the brain processes written and spoken language. It is primarily associated with difficulty in reading but it can also affect writing, spelling and speaking.
People with dyslexia, however, can still understand complex ideas and are often very creative. According to Understood, several people with dyslexia have successful careers just like director Steven Spielberg, actress Whoopi Goldberg, former quarterback Tim Tebow, actors Orlando Bloom, Patrick Dempsey, Tom Cruise and journalist Anderson Cooper.
Dyslexia Is A Gift
Even though dyslexia is now common condition, it is not a prediction or a curse for failure. As a matter of fact, the designers and illustrators of Dyslexic Design consider their condition as a "gift" that enhanced their creativity.
Interestingly, Dyslexic Design will be a part of the annual design exhibition called as Designjunction, which will take place in London, Milan and New York this September. Design Week reports that by participating in the exhibition, the Dyslexic Design team can help eradicate the stigma over dyslexia through "presenting it as an alternative way of thinking rather than a health condition."
In addition, the exhibition will also introduce the work of dyslexic designers from various disciplines including product, fashion, illustration, home décor and fine art. They are Tina Crawford, Sebastian Bergne, Terence Woodgate and Kristjana S. Williams.
Designjunction's Main Goal
Speaking of the exhibition, Designjunction reportedly aims to explore the astounding link between "dyslexia and the creative industries." The exhibition also want to emphasize that dyslexia is a "gift."
"It is my belief that I am able to design the way I do, because of my dyslexia and not despite it," Designjunction founder and exhibitor Jim Rokos said. "I [want] to remove the unwanted and unwarranted stigma sometimes associated with dyslexia and in doing so change perceptions of it. We believe dyslexia is something that drives and inspires creative thought and design."
Meanwhile, the 6th annual Designjunction will run from Sept. 22-25, 2016 as part of the London Design Festival. It will be held at a new venue in King's Cross with a theme of "Immersed in Design." Dyslexic Design, on the other hand, will take place on Sept. 17-25.
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