Disability Arts Online

Pallant House Gallery in Chichester, West Sussex, buzzed with excitement last night as the acclaimed ‘Outside In’ launched their new website www.outsidein.org.uk

It’s wonderful to see great projects flourish, especially in these difficult economic times. Marc Steene, the Outside In creative team and all the artists who have taken part in this initiative deserve all the recognition they are getting.

Outside in provides numerous opportunities for artists who may find it difficult to access the art world, whether due to disability, health social circumstance or art process. The main goal is to create a level playing field where access is possible for all who create.

What’s on offer:
• Opportunities to display your work online and in exhibitions
• The chance to take part in the 2012 national open and regional art competitions
• Information advice and support to develop as an artist
• Training and professional development opportunities
• A community of like-minded artists

We heard from 3 artists who’ve been involved in different ways last night. It was clear that they had all developed new skills and confidence, recognising themselves as artists who had something to show and say.

The step Up Training programme (coordinated by artist Mandie Saw) enables participants to explore the role of artist facilitator through practical sessions and opportunities to develop research skills.

A number of workshop packs based on Artists like Frank Auerbach have been produced. Now is the time to apply as the closing date for next year’s programme is next Friday 29th July 2011