By Sara Atencio-Gonzales, The Paper. — Vehicle designed as an “art piece” that will greet visitors on the way into the exhibit (Photo courtesy ADAC)
By Sara Atencio-Gonzales, The Paper — The upcoming All Abilities Art Show brings artists with disabilities together in Downtown Albuquerque for a weekend dedicated to creativity, community and opportunity.
Hosted by the Albuquerque Disability Arts Collaborative, the free event takes place March 14 and 15 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Orpheum Community Hub. The show invites visitors to browse and purchase art and crafts created by disabled artists and their allies.
“It’s an inclusive arts event for people with disabilities who are artists who want to sell their arts and crafts,” says Rachel Minnaar, executive director of the Albuquerque Disability Arts Collaborative. “It’s an opportunity for disabled artists to display their work, sell their work and make money from their work. One hundred percent of their earnings go back to them.”
The event stands apart from many traditional art shows because of its focus on accessibility and community. While anyone is welcome to attend, the show is designed to highlight artists who often face barriers in the broader art world.
(Photo courtesy ADAC)
“People with disabilities in the arts don’t get enough spaces to express themselves, to show their art and to make a living as an artist,” says Minnaar. “There’s not many opportunities for people with disabilities to express themselves.”
Visitors can expect a variety of artwork and creative mediums on display. One particularly unique piece will greet attendees as they arrive.
“We will actually have an artistically designed vehicle,” says Minnaar. “One of our artists designed a vehicle artistically like an art piece, and her vehicle will be there as you’re coming in.”
Beyond showcasing artwork, the event is also about changing perceptions of disability and creativity.
(Photo courtesy ADAC)
“What I hope people take away is that people with disabilities are multi-talented and have many strengths and gifts,” says Minnaar. “You should be advocating for their independence and expression in the community.”
The show is part of a broader effort by the Albuquerque Disability Arts Collaborative, a nonprofit organization that works to create accessible and affordable arts opportunities for the disability community. In addition to art shows, the group hosts open mic nights, workshops and classes throughout the year.
Community members can also look ahead to the Community Expressions Inclusive Arts Festival on May 30. The daylong event will include an art show and workshops during the day, followed by a dinner and variety show fundraiser in the evening to support programs for disabled artists.
For now, Minnaar hopes people will come out and support the artists directly.
“Just come, support, and purchase arts and crafts,” says Minnaar. “It supports the artists making a living and a livelihood and shows that what they do is valued and important.”
For more information on the Albuquerque Disability Arts Collaborative, go to adacnm.org.
ADAC All Abilities Arts Show
March 13 & 14, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Orpheum Community Hub
500 Second St. SW
Free!
(Courtesy ADAC)