Following research into arts accessibility for disabled people in Wrexham in Wales, this presentation will examine how the findings of this research display the need engagement with the Social Model of Disability within the arts. By utilising this socio-political theory, disabled people and groups can be enabled to lead exciting and innovative arts approaches. Disability and the arts can often be associated with arts therapy and therapeutic arts practice, missing the creativity, experiences, and talent that disabled artists can offer. The research within Wrexham included public forums with disabled people in the area, where participants reiterated the same key point - the arts, through a lack of inclusion, are "missing out" on a wealth of talent as well as potential audience members/attendees. Within this presentation the Social Model of Disability will be examined through an arts perspective, discussing the benefits to the arts when incorporating it into creative practice. This will include reference to current and previous arts projects that enabled disabled artists to lead creatively and their outcomes.

Authors:
Grace Thomas, University of Wrexham, United Kingdom

About the Presenter(s)
Dr Grace Thomas is a Senior Research Fellow in Arts Engagement for Wrexham University. Her current research areas are in arts accessibility, disability and social inclusion.

Connect on Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/grace-thomas87

See this presentation on the full schedule – On Demand Schedule

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