Mayo artists invited to practical workshop on inclusive arts

Artists with disabilities, support workers and personal assistants are invited to take part in a professional development event focused on making arts projects more inclusive at Ballina Arts Centre on Thursday, November 5.

Organised by Mayo County Council’s Arts Service, the event will run from 10.30am to 3.30pm and explore practical approaches to supporting artists and participants with diverse access requirements.

The session will be facilitated by Kate Wilson, director of Undercurrent Dance Company, alongside artists Isolde Carmody and Emilie Conway.

The day will begin with an introduction to Undercurrent and its evolving approach to access and integration, presented by Ms Wilson.

Ms Carmody will then share her experiences as an artist with disabilities, discussing what has helped, what has not worked and the importance of flexibility in creating inclusive arts environments.

Practical demonstrations by Ms Carmody and Ms Conway will cover techniques for guiding visually impaired artists and participants, as well as supporting people with sensory, physical and hidden impairments.

Ms Conway will also discuss her work as an artist and access consultant with the Royal Hibernian Academy and the National Gallery, alongside her experience of international approaches to accessibility and inclusion.

The event is funded by Creative Ireland. Lunch will be provided, and sign language interpreter support will be available during the event.

Places are limited and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. For further information or to book a place, email [email protected].