RICI would like to trial their first (small-scale) Inclusive Arts Festival week in Warkworth during the first week of December 2024, to highlight International Day of Persons with Disabilities, 3 December.

In observance of IDPD, it will be a creative celebration of the Disability Community, showcasing the work of disabled creatives. The project aims to create a platform for dialogue, creativity, and collaboration between disabled and non-disabled artists, and the wider public, fostering a greater understanding of diverse perspectives in our local community.

• Collaborate with our network of local disability organisations to identify and invite disabled artists from various disciplines (visual arts, performance, multimedia).

• Create a balanced programme featuring: exhibitions, displays & talks, and events.

• Partner with schools, community groups, and community centres to engage a wider audience, particularly those who may not typically attend art events or interact with disabled people.

This project stands out by not only highlighting the work of disabled creatives, but also creating an inclusive environment where everyone can engage with art. It challenges traditional narratives about disability by emphasising collaboration and community involvement.

“Currently, many art events lack inclusivity, often sidelining disabled people in general. Our projects fills this gap by offering an opportunity for the disability community to shine, while also providing the general public with opportunities to learn and interact in meaningful ways.”

About the Creator
I am a practicing artist, retired secondary school Art teacher, a published art writer, and a mentor of the arts. I live in Warkworth and have my own small studio on my property. I am closely connected to the disability sector (I have an adult son who has a severe disability) and I volunteer to manage two registered charities. One is Rodney Inclusive Communities Inc (RICI) - our vision is to promote inclusion & accessibility, celebrate diversity, and support the wellbeing of disabled people and their families in the Rodney District.

Our RICI committee consists of a team of experienced and qualified teachers/ creatives - in the Fine Art, Theatre, and Music industries. We also each run inclusive classes in our creative field, and are all very experienced working in the disability sector.