Development
“Art is in the heart. Its beauty is only realized with sharing.” —Steve Kean
All artists need to continue to hone their technical and business skills, and to engage with others within their artistic communities. This can be a particular challenge for artists with disabilities given the scarcity of professional development situations which recognize their specific aesthetic and practical preoccupations.
Professional Development
Phase 1: Workshops
In 2011, AAF launched a professional development programme, something we have been asked to provide for years. Sponsored by TD Financial with funding from the Ontario Arts Council, this initiative offers a mix of creative and business skills and invaluable networking opportunities with industry leaders from the private, public and not-for-profit sectors. Our second professional development season will feature a 12 week master class in photography, along with a second series of workshops for business and marketing skills.
In 2011, AAF launched a professional development programme, something we have been asked to provide for years. Sponsored by TD Financial with funding from the Ontario Arts Council, this initiative offers a mix of creative and business skills and invaluable networking opportunities with industry leaders from the private, public and not-for-profit sectors. Our second professional development season will feature a 12 week master class in photography, along with a second series of workshops for business and marketing skills.
Phase 2: Artists in the Schools
We are in development on an initiative to allow local public schools to invite artists with disabilities to create full or half day programmes for their students. Our goal is to provide the artists with professional employment, visibility and the opportunity to practice their art.
We are in development on an initiative to allow local public schools to invite artists with disabilities to create full or half day programmes for their students. Our goal is to provide the artists with professional employment, visibility and the opportunity to practice their art.
In addition to enhancing the arts curriculum, these workshops provide invaluable opportunities to replace the stigma surrounding disability with understanding and respect.
