“Disabled Artists transform spaces – invite them in.”
That was one resounding takeaway from ‘Beyond Limits: Disability at the Heart of the Arts’, an event at FACT Liverpool co-produced by Liverpool Biennial, Dada and the Centre for Culture and Disability Studies at Liverpool Hope University.
It was a day filled with hope, and a healthy dose of Disabled rage. For those of us working in and advocating for accessibility, it was a rare chance to unite around common values, questions, and creative visions. Together, we celebrated the transformative contributions Disabled Artists bring to the arts.
Art as Advocacy, Advocacy as Art
I was particularly moved by discussions around the concept that, for many Disabled Artists, art is inseparable from advocacy. Being a Disabled Artist often means confronting institutional barriers and social stigma as part of the creative journey. These obstacles become woven into our work, which then serves as both personal expression and social critique.
It was clear throughout the day that this dual role—artist and advocate—is both empowering and exhausting. Creating art while simultaneously fighting for the right to be seen, supported, and respected takes resilience. Hearing other artists speak about their similar journeys was a powerful moment of collective understanding. We didn’t have to justify the advocacy inherent in our art; instead, it was recognised as essential to the art itself. This validation felt like a breath of fresh air and reinforced the notion that centring Disabled Artists brings a depth and urgency to the arts that is really vital.
The speakers, including keynote and Spectroscope founder Cathy Mager, and Senior Lecturer at Liverpool Hope University Dr. Erin Pritchard, didn’t shy away from addressing the systemic issues Disabled Artists face, but they also focused on the potential for change. Cathy’s talk reminded us that the arts are uniquely positioned to drive societal progress. By centring Disabled Artists, we’re not just making space for a marginalised group; we’re enriching the entire arts landscape, fostering empathy, and challenging audiences to broaden their perspectives. This vision of inclusivity is not just idealistic—it’s necessary for the arts to thrive and remain relevant in an ever-evolving world.
Reflections on My Own Practice
As an Accessibility Consultant and Disabled Artist, this day of creative enquiry reignited my own sense of purpose and responsibility. It reinforced the importance of my work in both the artistic and accessibility spheres, and reminded me why I choose to advocate for change through my art and my consulting work. The event strengthened my commitment to ensuring that Disabled Artists, myself included, have the autonomy to shape our narratives and that our work is recognised for its creative power—not just for its representation.
I left the event feeling both energised and challenged. I thought about ways to bring these lessons back into my practice, not only by advocating for change but by embodying it. I want my work to serve as an invitation for others to join this ongoing transformation in the arts, and I feel truly excited to be joining Cathy on this journey with Spectroscope.
Written by Yiska
YISKA: Championing Accessibility in Music and the Arts
YISKA is a Disabled artist and seasoned performer with over a decade of experience in the music industry. Her journey has been shaped by overcoming substantial barriers, driving her passion to revolutionise the industry by advocating for greater accessibility for Disabled artists, audiences, and professionals alike.
As a Freelance Trainer for Attitude is Everything, YISKA leverages her expertise to promote inclusion within live events. She holds a Gold Certificate in Disability Equality for the Live Event Industry Training, a distinction awarded by Attitude is Everything in partnership with Falmouth University.
YISKA’s commitment to accessibility extends further, with formal training from the Centre for Accessible Environments qualifying her to conduct detailed access audits. Additionally, she contributes to broader change as a Trustee for the Bristol Disability Equality Forum, working to amplify the voices of Disabled people in her community.
Through her multifaceted roles, YISKA continues to champion equality and accessibility, shaping a more inclusive future for the creative industries.