Snake arms and crystal legs: Artificial limbs push boundaries of art

Photos: The Alternative Limb Project
The art of prosthetics – The Alternative Limb Project is producing beautiful artificial limbs, including this "snake arm," used by British swimmer and amputee Jo-Jo Cranfield, pictured.
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Photos: The Alternative Limb Project
The art of prosthetics – "I've never felt uncomfortable about my limb (or should I say lack of)," says Cranfield, "but this experience has given me a different sort of positive outlook on myself."
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Photos: The Alternative Limb Project
The art of prosthetics – Sophie de Oliveira Barata is director of the Alternative Limb Project (ALP). She says she is challenging the belief that prosthetic limbs should aim to look as realistic as possible.
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Photos: The Alternative Limb Project
The art of prosthetics – Model and singer Viktoria Modesta wore one of Barata's creations -- a Swarovski jewel-encrusted leg -- while performing at the closing ceremony of the London Paralympic Games.
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Photos: The Alternative Limb Project
The art of prosthetics – "It was really fascinating watching people's reactions because most of them were speechless," says Modesta of the experience -- adding that she enjoyed using her glamorous accessory to confront negative stereotypes about amputees' abilities.
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Photos: The Alternative Limb Project
The art of prosthetics – Modesta collaborated with de Oliveira Barata on ALP's first prosthesis, which incorporates stereo speakers. "It's a special piece that needs to be exposed only in special circumstances to be fully appreciated," she says.
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