OPEN STUDIOS is a programme of inclusive art workshops that enable people with learning disabilities to be integrated into a busy, independent arts organisation. Regular workshops will support people to develop their creativity, communication and self-advocacy skills through individual learning plans. The workshops run over 36 weeks each year, divided into three academic terms of 12 weeks. They take place once a week at Project Art Works’ studio and are tailored to meet the needs of each participant who will work 1:1
or in small groups with professional artists. Individual learning plans are be developed through a series of consultative meetings with the participants, the artists and ‘significant others’ involved in the life of the student.

The focus is on self-directed creative exploration and will include workshops in drawing, painting, photography and filmmaking. Person Centred

The ongoing programme of weekly studio work actively promotes and enables communication, choice and decision making, (verbal, non-verbal and visual) through
creative processes and partnership working. The work made by people involved in OPEN STUDIOS feeds back into Person Centred Planning and reviews through film,photography and portfolios of work that support the choices, desires and developments of individual
participants.

OPEN STUDIOS, day 2, will run between February and
December 2008.

Quotes from students/parents and carers who have participated in the OPEN STUDIOS pilot project.

J, student
“I decided to paint over my ‘Superman painting’ so I could re-use my canvas to paint Gary Glitter. I did a drawing of Gary Glitter in my stretch book before drawing him on my canvas and starting the painting.”

D, student
What I want to do, “Make a 30-40 second film about anti social behaviour with a drunk abusing an old lady, (the) film (is to) encourage people to report anti social behaviour rather
than ignore it”

P, student with complex needs
What I did, (written by the artist working 1:1 withstudent)I looked at books of peoples’ faces. I concentrated on marking marks on the images of faces in my sketchbook. I drew a curve today that was a new mark for me.

Parent
“C looks forward to Thursdays with enthusiasm. We have not seen her so excited in a very long time. Her attitude has changed for the better. The artworks she brings home can only be described as fantastic. C is very proud of her work, she describes in detail how she
makes or paints each piece.”