Author: Andie Freeman
For more than 40 years, a singular mission—making the arts accessible by all—has driven Arts Access, a Raleigh-based nonprofit organization. “Our vision is to have communities where the arts are universally accessible,” says its executive director, Eileen Bagnall. To achieve this, they offer organizations and individuals in the arts and disability communities a variety of accessibility services: audio descriptions, educational programs, consultation work, advocacy, and one-on-one mentoring sessions.
Arts Access is the only organization focused on “serving people at the intersection of arts, education, and disability in North Carolina,” according to its website. Recognizing that people with disabilities are part of the vibrant cultural community of North Carolina, Arts Access is passionate about helping organizations create spaces that are accessible by all.
In 2017, Arts Access launched the Artists Link Project, to support the careers of disabled artists in North Carolina. Through this project, artists gain access to professional development workshops, networking opportunities, information about calls for art, and links to funding sources. Artists can also choose to be part of a roster promoted on the Arts Access website. The Artist Link Project is free and open to North Carolina artists with disabilities, of all experience levels, who are at least 18 years old.
To further elevate the visibility of artists with disabilities, the organization opened a gallery in 2024. “The Arts Access Gallery puts our mission front and center,” Eileen explains. “Our goal with the gallery is to provide a space where disabled artists can show up as their authentic selves. It's helped to increase membership in the Artist Link Project and connected us to new partners in the community.” The current exhibition—A Celebration of the ADA: Disability Pride—will be on view through September 19.
Recently, Arts Access launched an accessible digital guide for the gallery using the Bloomberg Connects app. “It's a great way to engage those who may not be able to visit our gallery in person,” Eileen notes. The app allows users to view past exhibitions, complete with recorded audio descriptions and artist statements for each artwork.
Arts Access continues to break barriers, making the arts in North Carolina more accessible for everyone.