Artists: Astro Saulter 

Astro is a young artist with living with disability.  He as an artist works with digital imaging. As you will see in the video, Astro uses the same computer software as Stephen Hawkings to create his work. Astro is currently preparing for his third art exhibition.

Despite having no control  over the use of his hands, Aatro manipulates the art program through the controller. The ability to produce salable artworks is not reliant on the abilities we associate with artistic abilities. Creative juices sliver from the mind to appear on a canvas or in Astro case computer screen.

Every artists in entitled to access professional training and development opportunities and be assisted to maximize their potential market.  However, we live in society with many barriers. Our educational institutions are not always accessible and learning supports such as hearing loops are not always available, and sadly this is especially true for art studios. 

Art studios tend to be tuck away in disused warehouses and stairs, even those with access of fail to have accessible amenities. However access issues are not solely the propriety for those living with disability that affect their mobility.  Hearing loss can pose just as many access issues art artist's seek to find training to enhance their skills.

Traditional arts education is well grounded in theory and history.  Lack of knowledge in these areas does not impair the artists ability to work.  In the sale of works of art disability is irrelevant. However outside continually want to make it relevant and create barriers.  Society as a whole demands we comform to their standards to enter the market place.

Artisability can never create a fare playing field for artist with a disability, but we can assist to build bridges to remove some of the barriers artists like Astro face.  We can assist with things like education, communication and advocating for artists with a disability. 

The first step in the artISability program is to enable artists to set their goals, the second is to provide accessible training and professional development and lastly we provide information and assistance to access that information to link them to other artists living in the community.

Our pilot program begins next month if you live in the Ipswich City Council area and would like to become involve call Debbie on 0421 401 788 now! To book your place in the program and don't be shy invite your friends with disabilities to sign up too!