The Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council has launched the Disabled Artists Creative Cohort, a pioneering initiative to promote equity and accessibility in the arts for disabled artists. This paid advisory group, comprised of disabled artists and professionals, will collaborate with the Council to advocate for regional change, provide resources, and create opportunities that prioritize disability justice and accessibility. Let's delve into the inspiring stories of the inaugural cohort members and their vision for a more inclusive arts community.
Introducing the Disabled Artists Creative Cohort
Learn about the groundbreaking initiative by the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council to empower disabled artists.
The Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council has launched the Disabled Artists Creative Cohort, a pioneering initiative that aims to make the arts sector more equitable and accessible for disabled artists. This paid advisory group, comprised of disabled artists and professionals, will work in collaboration with the Council to advocate for regional change, provide resources, and create opportunities that prioritize disability justice and accessibility.
The cohort members, who bring diverse expertise and lived experiences, will play a crucial role in shaping access-centered programming and influencing public policy. By centering disability justice and accessibility, the Disabled Artists Creative Cohort aims to create a more inclusive arts community that benefits all residents of Pittsburgh.
Meet the Inaugural Cohort Members
Get to know the talented disabled artists who are part of the Disabled Artists Creative Cohort.
The inaugural Disabled Artists Creative Cohort consists of seven talented disabled artists and arts professionals from various disciplines. Let's meet some of the inspiring individuals:
Khaliah Guenther (aka Kay Cee)
Khaliah Guenther, also known as Kay Cee, is a visual artist and Pittsburgh native. Their artwork reflects their unique perspective as a disabled artist, and they are passionate about making art accessible to all.
Sandra Bacchi
Sandra Bacchi is a Brazilian-American mixed-media artist who works with glass. Her artwork explores themes of identity, disability, and resilience, and she is dedicated to promoting inclusivity in the arts.
Sarah Hurd
Sarah Hurd is a classically trained oboist who brings her musical talent and passion for accessibility to the cohort. She believes that everyone should have the opportunity to experience and create art, regardless of their abilities.
Eli Kurs-Lasky
Eli Kurs-Lasky is a writer and photographer who uses their art to challenge societal perceptions of disability. They are committed to creating a more inclusive and diverse arts community in Pittsburgh.
Asher O'Briant
Asher O'Briant is a comedy writer who uses humor to address disability-related issues. Their unique perspective and storytelling abilities contribute to the cohort's mission of promoting disability justice in the arts.
Tess Dally
Tess Dally is a dancer who believes in the power of movement to transcend physical limitations. Through her art, she aims to challenge stereotypes and create a more inclusive dance community.
These talented individuals, along with other cohort members, are dedicated to driving positive change in the arts sector and ensuring that disabled artists have equal opportunities to thrive.
Enriching the Arts for Everyone
Explore the vision of the Disabled Artists Creative Cohort for a more inclusive arts community.
The Disabled Artists Creative Cohort envisions an arts community in Pittsburgh that is accessible and enriching for everyone. They believe that art should not only be physically accessible but also reflect the diversity of the city's residents.
River White, a member of the cohort and a digital and textile artist, emphasizes the importance of public art being accessible to all, regardless of socioeconomic status or race. They envision a Pittsburgh where everyone can experience and connect with art.
As a person with disabilities, River White also highlights the importance of representation and inclusivity in the arts. They believe that art should be created by and for everyone, regardless of their background or abilities.
The cohort members are committed to advocating for change, both in artistic production and public policy. Through their expertise and lived experiences, they aim to make lasting improvements in the accessibility and inclusivity of the arts sector in Pittsburgh.
Art Knows No Boundaries
Discover the inspiring journeys of disabled artists and their path to becoming part of the Disabled Artists Creative Cohort.
The path to becoming an artist is unique for each individual, and disabled artists are no exception. River White, a member of the cohort, shares their personal journey from being a "nerdy kid playing with LEGOs" to studying electrical engineering and eventually pursuing digital art and crocheting in Pittsburgh.
After becoming disabled through injury, River White developed a passion for increasing accessibility through art. They are currently studying user experience and user interface design, with a focus on improving website and app accessibility.
One important message that River White wants to convey is that anyone can start their artistic journey at any time. They believe that background and abilities should not limit one's ability to create art and make a meaningful impact in the arts community.
The Disabled Artists Creative Cohort celebrates the diverse paths that disabled artists have taken and aims to provide support, resources, and opportunities for disabled artists to thrive in Pittsburgh's vibrant arts scene.
Conclusion
The Disabled Artists Creative Cohort, a groundbreaking initiative by the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council, is set to transform the arts sector in Pittsburgh. Through their expertise, lived experiences, and commitment to disability justice and accessibility, the cohort members are driving positive change and advocating for a more inclusive arts community.
By centering the voices and talents of disabled artists, the cohort aims to make art more accessible and enriching for everyone. They envision a Pittsburgh where public art reflects the diversity of its residents and where barriers to artistic expression are dismantled.
Through their collaboration with the Greater Pittsburgh Arts Council, the Disabled Artists Creative Cohort will continue to create opportunities, provide resources, and advocate for regional change. Their work will not only empower disabled artists but also contribute to a more equitable and inclusive society.
With the Disabled Artists Creative Cohort leading the way, Pittsburgh is poised to become a model for disability justice and accessibility in the arts. The future of the arts sector looks brighter and more inclusive thanks to the dedication and talent of these remarkable artists.
