Innovation Spotlight | Disability Arts Clubs and Programs
by Lori Morphy, SARC Trainer/Resource Developer – Service Delivery, July 21, 2025
Disability arts clubs are creative spaces where people experiencing disability can explore, express, and celebrate their identities through the arts. There are many different types of disability arts clubs, focusing on different mediums or types of art – including visual art, theatre, storytelling, dance, and more. These clubs promote accessibility, inclusion, and empowerment through artistic expression.
Check out these great arts clubs and programs!
Chrysalis Art Studio in Calgary, Alberta is a studio where artists with disabilities can learn and develop visual art skills with professional tools and guidance. Artists explore different mediums, and their artwork is sold and showcased throughout the community.
In the world of performance art, Lifetime Networks in Victoria, British Columbia offers a theatre troupe where performers create, write, and perform their own shows. They focus on songwriting, comedy, creating props, dancing, acting, and singing.
Regina, Saskatchewan is home to the Listen to Dis Community Arts Organization which has been offering arts programming since 2006. They host workshops, two ensembles of performing artists, community performances across Saskatchewan, and a visiting artist series. The artists at Listen to Dis also created a web series to share their story – check it out here
In Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Dance Collective YXE offers inclusive dance programs for all ages – including “Wheels in Motion” for dancers who use wheelchairs, and “Spirit Flyers” for dancers with cognitive and/or physical disabilities.
Elsewhere in the world, AMICI Dance Theatre Company in London, England is a unique dance theatre company integrating artists and performers of all abilities. Their productions and workshops have had a major impact world-wide, challenging conventional attitudes about disability and the arts. AMICI runs regular weekly classes and produces a full company show. You can watch a great video about AMICI by clicking the media player below.
These are just a sample of the many inclusive arts clubs and programs you can find around the world. Many of the examples shared are non-profit organizations, offering inclusive programming and welcoming people of all abilities who are interested in the arts and culture.
Do you know of a disability arts club or program in your community? We want to hear your stories! Contact SARC’s Communications Coordinator at ahoffart@sarcan.sk.ca
