Access•ABILITY, a dynamic exhibit and community initiative designed to celebrate accessibility and inclusivity in the arts, comes to
Studio 23/The Arts Center from Thurs., April 3 to Sat., June 7.
This groundbreaking project will feature interactive installations, community workshops, storytimes, sensory-friendly hours, and field trip opportunities, ensuring that individuals of all abilities can fully engage with and enjoy the arts.
About the Exhibit:
Access•ABILITY showcases work from artists who explore themes of accessibility, disability, and universal design. The exhibit will highlight innovative approaches to creating art that is interactive, tactile, and multisensory, ensuring a welcoming experience for all visitors at the gallery, 901 N. Water St. in Downtown Bay City.
Sensory-Friendly Hours:
To create a comfortable and engaging environment for neurodivergent individuals and those with sensory sensitivities, Studio 23 will offer designated sensory-friendly hours on Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to noon. During these times, the gallery will feature reduced noise levels, low lighting, and additional accommodations to support visitors who may benefit from a quieter setting.
Community Workshops:
As part of the Access•ABILITY initiative, Studio 23 will host a series of hands-on community workshops that explore accessible art-making techniques, as well as Sign Language 101 classes. These workshops will be open to people of all abilities and provide adaptive tools and materials to ensure an inclusive creative process.
Storytimes & Interactive Engagements:
Families and young audiences can look forward to accessible storytime sessions, featuring books that celebrate diversity and inclusion. These sessions will include American Sign Language (ASL) interpretation, tactile materials, and interactive elements to engage children of all learning styles and abilities.
Field Trips & Educational Opportunities:
Studio 23 welcomes schools and community groups to experience Access•ABILITY through guided field trips and educational programming tailored to diverse learning needs. These visits will provide an immersive and enriching exploration of the intersection between art and accessibility.
Get Involved:
Studio 23 invites the community to be part of Access•ABILITY by attending events,
participating in workshops, and supporting our mission to make the arts accessible for everyone. Local organizations and businesses interested in partnership opportunities are encouraged to reach out to:
Studio 23 Executive Director Megan Koch at
989-894-2323, ext.11, or
executive.director@studio23baycity.org.
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