Arts Access at WCFA: Meaningful Art Experiences for Individuals with Disabilities

The visual arts hold special significance in all of our lives, and greatly so in those with physical, intellectual, or developmental disabilities. Through participation in art-making, individuals of all ages and abilities can use their skills and talents to express themselves and communicate their internal experiences. There is great merit in making something tangible from a variety
of materials, and feel the joy and satisfaction of an original creation. At WCFA, our mission is to connect individuals of all ages and abilities to the arts. For those with disabilities, participation in artistic experiences can enhance a sense of self-determination, efficacy, and decision-making as well as provide a unique opportunity to engage in joyful self-expression in a social and educational setting.

Program Description: The goals of this art-making experience are multifold; to provide an opportunity for historically underserved populations of disabled adults to enhance self-esteem, strengthen individual functioning, offer an avenue to communicate emotions and feelings through artistic self-expression, and to provide an opportunity to learn from accomplished professionals.

WCFA offers 90 minute art classes that take place weekly in the organization’s classroom in Warwick, RI. Program participants are led by professional teaching artists through exploratory art experiences that are designed to offer opportunities for creative open-ended expression for individuals with disabilities. The artists will provide instruction using diverse media and arts practices to engage clients from various local service agencies (such as Spurwink/RI, Trudeau Center, etc.) in artistic exploration. If the student typically has a DSP to assist, we ask that they come along too.

We strive to keep the participation fees very low ($15-20) and will work with you to determine an affordable rate per class. We require a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 8 students per class.

At the end of a semester we offer a final exhibition of the students’ portfolios with a celebration at the conclusion of the program. Private workshops for groups may also be arranged. If an individual typically requires an aid they should accompany the student (at no
additional cost).

Please contact Danielle Salisbury, director@warwickcfa.org, 401-737-0010 for more information or to RSVP for an upcoming class.