TILII Roving Report: A Visit to the University of Atypical for Arts and Disability

TILII Roving Report: A Visit to the University of Atypical for Arts and Disability

Hi everyone! We’re the TILII roving reporters Joe, Hilary, Mary, Richella, Michael, and Alex, and we went to the University of Atypical for Arts and Disability to see all the exciting things they do for artists who are d/Deaf, disabled, or neurodivergent. We had a chat with Zara, the gallery coordinator, and Sheena, the community engagement manager, and they told us everything about their work.

We first met the University of Atypical team earlier this year. In the morning, Lou ran the learning disability induction training, and in the afternoon, TILII co-facilitated with Lou. This meant the team got to hear straight from Experts By Experience about how to make learning, creating, and art more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Zara has been involved with the organisation for two years. She told us that the University of Atypical supports disabled and neurodivergent artists, giving them funding, guidance, and mentoring opportunities. Unlike other places, they don’t run regular workshops for everyone.  Instead, they focus on helping artists access the support they need through grants or mentorships. Then, they give them a platform to showcase their work professionally.

‘I liked hearing about the awards.  They don’t just want you to make art, they want to help you learn.’ –  Alex

 

Artist Awards and Support

Zara explained the artist awards they run. About 50 – 70 artists apply each year, and a panel selects 20 to receive awards. These awards aren’t just for making art—they can also pay for things like mentorships, residencies, or learning new skills. It’s not about producing a big exhibition at the end; it’s about helping artists grow in the way that suits them best.

Bounce Arts Festival

Next, we learned about the annual Bounce Arts Festival, which is a big deal. It’s the only arts festival in Northern Ireland that covers all kinds of art from dance, music, spoken word, visual arts, and more for d/Deaf, disabled or neurodivergent artists. The festival takes place in Belfast and Derry and is designed to be as accessible as possible, keeping costs low so lots of people can attend. But Zara made it clear: artists always get paid.

‘I think it’s great that everyone gets paid. Artists deserve it!’ – Joe

Click the link if you want to know more about Bounce Arts Festival –https://universityofatypical.org/bounce/

Connection with Art College

Zara explained that graduating disabled students in Fine Art BA, Photography, and Fine Art Masters can apply for the Graduate Award and get a solo exhibition. As a result, they will be paid for their work and get mentoring support. The Graduate Award is a way to make that big step after college feel a bit safer, like having a safety net while trying new things.

Accessibility

Our roving reporters were curious about accessibility, and that’s where Jonathan, the Access and Inclusion Officer, comes in. He works with other Arts organisations to make their spaces accessible, not just in terms of wheelchairs, but signage, sensory support, and more. He also runs training courses and gives certificates to organisations that meet accessibility standards. But it’s continual improvement.  Things change, technology changes, and so do people’s needs.

“I liked learning about the sensory boxes and quiet spaces. Makes everyone feel welcome.” Hilary

Small Touches Make a Big Difference

Zara talked about the small touches that make a big difference. For example, they have a sensory box, accessible toilets clearly marked, and the gallery team is always ready to help visitors find what they need. Some artists just need a quiet space to relax or chat, and the gallery provides that. Others might need help filling out funding forms or finding the right training. Support comes in many forms, and the team is always approachable.

Community Engagement

We also met Sheena, the Community Engagement Manager. She told us how much she loves connecting with groups across Northern Ireland. Whether it’s schools, community groups, or individual artists, everyone is welcome to pop in and find out more. She said the team is always open to hearing about access requirements so that no one feels left out.

Fun Questions

We asked some fun questions too. Like, do you have a favourite artist? Zara said she does not play favourites. Every artist brings something unique to the gallery, and her job is to help all of them shine. She mentioned Anne Butler, who works with ceramics, as an example of someone doing brilliant work.

“I liked hearing that no one is left out. Everyone matters.” Richella

Volunteering and Training

We were curious about volunteering and training programmes. Sheena explained that volunteering is open to everyone, and while they don’t run general art classes, they do offer training sessions that help artists with practical things.

For example, one recent session helped artists understand tax returns and insurance which is important for anyone working for themselves.

“The gallery is a great place” – Michael

 

Symposiums

We also learned about symposiums. These are events where artists and audiences can talk about art, ask questions, and share ideas. They’re a great way to learn from each other and see things from different points of view.

Small but Important Details

Mary and Michael liked hearing about the small but important details. For example, making sure everyone knows where the toilets are or that they can touch certain artwork if the artist allows it. It’s the little things that make a big difference, and the gallery team never misses a beat.

Online Access

We also found out about online access. The gallery has a website, Facebook and Instagram. Zara said more people can see the work online if they can’t make it to the gallery in person. We liked that it is art for everyone, at home or in the gallery!

Wrapping Up

The University of Atypical for Arts and Disability is a hub of creativity, support, and accessibility. They’re always improving, learning, and welcoming.