Disability art workshops play a vital role in building inclusive communities, and challenging perceptions of disability within the wider arts sector.
Arts OutWest have just completed a 12-week pilot program of Accessible Artistry visual art workshops in Bathurst for artists who identify as working with disability.
“These kinds of workshops help provide artists living with disability access to resources, skills development, and collaborative spaces where their artistic voices can thrive,” said Arts OutWest’s Arts & Health coordinator Steven Cavanagh.
“They emphasise creative expression, professional practice, and recognition of the artist as a distinct and valued member of a broad and inclusive arts and culture ecology,” he said.
A talented and varied group of artists expressed their interest in participating. A curriculum of creative visual arts engagements was designed and led by practicing artist/educators Cate McCarthy and Adrian Symes.
“Participants were guided and challenged to think about their art as an ever-evolving practice with infinite possibilities, fostering individual techniques and viewpoints,” said Mr Cavanagh.
They explored drawing, sculpture, animation, painting, photography, collage and shadow puppetry.
Starting in May, each week the group were encouraged to engage with different themes and ways of thinking and working. A constant focus for expression was a 10-metre roll of paper that the artists added to collaboratively and exhibited as a scroll-like visual diary. Each artist received their own kit of art materials and visual diary to continue working between classes.
An offsite workshop at Bathurst Regional Art Gallery mid-project was an incredible highlight as participants responded to the current exhibition, Esssenssse.
“Workshops have also served as a platform for networking, peer exchange and mentorship. By connecting emerging and established artists, participants have been able to share strategies for developing artworks while challenging stereotypes and making their mark on contemporary culture,” Mr Cavanagh said.
The 12-week program culminated with an exhibition survey of work at Charles Sturt University (where the workshops had been held), attended by project partners, family and friends, hosted and presented by the artists.
The Arts OutWest Accessible Artistry Workshops have been funded by Carenne Support Limited and generously supported by BRAG, EnhanceABILITY and Charles Sturt University.
Images: Participant Montana Single at the Essessence exhibition at Bathurst Regional Art Gallery (above) and a sculpture created by Montana Single in response to the exhibition (below).
Article supplied by Arts OutWest.
