Arts Learning

Individuals living with disabilities are an underserved population where arts education is concerned. During this grant period the ARTS Program was an outlet for any person wishing to participate in quality, professionally-taught arts instruction within Duluth and the surrounding areas. We achieved this outcome by being the only accessible arts program in the area to offer dance, theater arts and creative writing. In addition, we were one of only a few organizations offering visual studio art classes with a focus on mitigating barriers that people with disabilities face when taking traditional classes. During the grant period, 81 arts learners within our organization had the opportunity to experience the variety of arts learning opportunities offered. Our organization further expanded the opportunity to include the community by reaching out to several agencies serving people with disabilities. The number of people served outside of our agency was 21 community members. 2: This project addressed the need for quality arts experiences and learning opportunities for individuals living with disabilities. The ARTS Program increased the number of individuals participating in inclusive arts learning settings. Arts learners were taught at a pace and with a focus designed for their individual learning styles. It was one of the only programs of its kind in northern Minnesota. The evaluation tools used included one-on-one interviews with participants to evaluate the accessibility of the program, satisfaction surveys, goal planning, and team meetings. Success was also determined by the number of individuals who participated in this grant-funded program and the number of community members that were introduced to the talents of the participants. In order to limit barriers to participation, all instructors had professional experience working with people with disabilities prior to this grant program and all classes were held in accessible locations.