Creativity without barriers: Arts Access ID empowers artists with learning disabilities. This Zero Project Award winner demonstrates how inclusive cultural work leads to genuine participation.
Arts Access ID was founded in 2014 by Suisha Inclusive Arts – part of the non-profit organization Horizons in Cork. The program supports artists who are neurodiverse or live with learning disabilities. Its approach is multifaceted: accessible art classes, co-designed programs, collaborative performances, artist residencies, and structural development within cultural institutions.
The impact is significant: Since 2014, over 10,000 people They participated in courses, training programs, performances, workshops, and conferences. The number of active artists increased from around 500 to over 1,350 between 2022 and 2025 alone. Horizons activities are implemented at 20 locations and expanded through European programs such as Erasmus+ and Creative Europe.
Three aspects make this project special:
- Co-creation and self-determination:
Artists with disabilities help shape programs and make decisions about their artistic practice. This creates an inclusive and equitable cultural space. - Competence development in the cultural sector:
Arts Access ID collaborates with museums, theaters, festivals, and educational institutions to break down barriers and establish inclusive methods. Successful examples include sold-out theater productions, European festivals, and new inclusive music, dance, and theater formats. - High reach and international networking:
Through partnerships with organizations in Ireland and Europe, the model continues to grow – supported by research, training and long-term cooperation.
A quote from the founder, Eóin Nash, summarizes the vision:
„The potential of inclusive arts emerges from the intersection of disability and human creativity.“
Arts Access ID demonstrates how creativity, empowerment, and inclusion combine to create a vibrant arts scene where everyone has their place.
More information here