The difference we make, is to create workshops where children with even the most complex disabilities feel they belong, and are able to shape their environment. Working 1:1 with our artists, they will be able to experience fully inclusive, specialist art activities that reveal and work with their potential, and which really help them to communicate something about themselves. Children are given the opportunity to engage with traditional media (painting, drawing) as well as digital media including film, photography and graphics.
Many of the children we work with have sensory impairments, changing the way they perceive and communicate with the world. In 2009, we will also create specific sensory environments – distinct internal and external spaces which will include – a sound space; a fully insulated quiet space, and a tactile space including a temporary garden. Through these stimulating environments we aim to inspire alternative routes to creating and connecting for these children.
The main outcomes of Art Breaks Summer Workshops would be:
- increased opportunities for children with complex needs to express themselves through using a wide range of art and media techniques including film/video
- increased opportunities for children with complex needs, and particularly those who are non-verbal to enhance their experience and learning of their environment eg. sight and sound through the use of projectors etc.
- to reduce feelings of isolation, lack of stimulation and boredom felt during school breaks
- to enable families to take risks together and to explore the potential learning of their disabled child in a supportive environment
- to increase positive perceptions between disabled and non-disabled siblings
