According to the CDC, an estimated 26% of Americans experience some form of disability, with Women and People of Color being affected at rates much higher than their peers. Inclusion and accessibility are everyone’s responsibility, and the arts community can be the vanguard of social change.

On Wednesday, October 12th, 7:00 – 8:00pm, as part of the W/O Limits: Art, Chronic Illness, and Disability exhibition, the Artists Archives will host a virtual panel discussion with featured artists Kristi Copez, MANDEM, and Andrew Reach. Moderated by curator Megan Alves, the 45-minute discussion will provide unique insight into the artists’ work and candidly explore issues of accessibility and inclusion in Northeast Ohio’s art scene.

­

As Moco Steinman-Arendsee, a member of the artist conglomerate MANDEM describes, “Cleveland is a mix of both notable opportunities and tremendous barriers to entry for disabled artists. There are accessible studio spaces and residencies available, though a greater number remain inaccessible. Some curators go out of their way to make spaces inclusive… though others will actively discriminate against disabled participants in fear of being asked to do the same.” The virtual panel will both address these challenges as well as consider scalable solutions for creating an arts culture that is welcoming for all.

The Accessibility in the Arts Panel Discussion will conclude with an open audience Q&A period. The accompanying W/O Limits: Art, Chronic Illness, and Disability exhibition will be on view at the Artists Archives until November 12.

To attend the free online program, REGISTER ON ZOOM