The Backbone is a photography project funded by Arts Council England and supported by Grain Photography Hub.

Artist Ayesha Jones would like to photograph and film females of all ages and backgrounds here at The Royal Orthopaedic Hospital. She will then work more closely with five females to include their stories in a publication and exhibition in 2024. The publication produced at the end of this project will be an aid for other females who have idiopathic scoliosis, as well as raising awareness about the condition to the general public.

Images taken as part of this project may be included in the publication and in exhibitions, so all participants/ parents of participants (if under 18), will be asked to sign a photo release form before their image is taken. All participants will receive a digital copy of their image.

If you would Like to take part in this project, please send in at least three images of yourself:

• One head shot
• One full length shot from the back (with your scoliosis visible)
• One full length shot from the front

And a short paragraph about yourself and your scoliosis journey (no more than 500 words).

Send to: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Please be aware that we may not be able to respond to everyone that applies to be part of this project. We appreciate that this may be disappointing and appreciate the effort that everyone has gone to, to send images and write about your story. We would like to include a diverse range of people and stories in this project, so the reason we may not include yours may be due to similarities with other applicants and is not a reflection on you or your application.

Photoshoots will take place in Birmingham. Travel expenses can be covered for anyone living in the UK, who needs financial support to attend the shoot.

Deadline for applications: 2nd January 2024.