Arts and Disability Network Australia (ADNA), the new national network for artists with disability, has launched and is now inviting submissions for its first commissions from artists with disability.
Featuring a new website and commissioning opportunities, ADNA’s launch is a significant step in improving access to the arts and supporting artists with disability nationwide, marking a long-term commitment to building a strong, artist-led future for Australia’s disability arts sector.
ADNA is the new national consortium of seven state and territory organisations, including Access2Arts (SA), Accessible Arts (NSW), DADAA (WA), Incite Arts (NT), Arts Access Darwin (NT), Access Arts (QLD), and Arts Access Victoria (VIC). ADNA brings together local expertise to harness a shared strength and amplify a collective voice in support of artists with disabilities across the country.
As a delivery partner for the Australian Government’s Equity: the Arts and Disability Associated Plan, ADNA is taking strategic, nationwide action to improve access and inclusion across Australia’s creative industries. ADNA is led by Sarah-Mace Dennis, an international arts and screen industry professional with lived experience.
“With our first commissions now open, ADNA is creating real opportunities for artists with disability to showcase their talent,” said Sarah-Mace Dennis, ADNA National Director. “Our goal is simple: to make the arts more accessible and inclusive for all Australians. ADNA puts artists with lived experience of disability at the centre of everything we do.”
Guided by a strong community focus, ADNA’s approach is deeply inclusive and grassroots. It recognises that a thriving disability arts sector involves the entire ecosystem, including artists, support workers, carers, organisations, and audiences, working together to create more sustainable opportunities for creative participation.
ADNA is now inviting submissions from artists with disability for its inaugural commissions, including a video series, a postcard series, and photography.
The launch of ADNA and its new initiatives underscores a long-term commitment to a sustainable, artist-led disability arts sector in Australia. ADNA is proudly supported by the Australian Government via Creative Australia.
For more information about Arts and Disability Network Australia (ADNA) and to learn more about opportunities for artists with disability, visit: www.artsdisabilitynetwork.com.au for details.
Image: Sarah-Mace Dennis – courtesy of Arts and Disability Network Australia