Minnesota: Accessible Arts Program

In 2017, Minnesota Center for Book Arts (a fiscal year 2024 Accessible Arts grantee) partnered with Epic Enterprise, an organization serving individuals with disabilities, to work with Artist-in-Residence Amos Paul Kennedy Jr. on a letterpress project exploring the Power of the Press and amplifying participants’ voices. Photo courtesy of Minnesota State Arts Board

Many people with disabilities confront barriers in their ability to create, access and fully participate in artistic experiences. Such hurdles not only limit their artistic expression but also perpetuate exclusion—highlighting the need for accessible and inclusive initiatives so that everyone can experience the transformative power of the arts. Recognizing the significant challenges faced by individuals with disabilities in accessing and participating in the arts, the Minnesota State Arts Board launched the Accessible Arts program.

The pilot program, now in its second year, seeks to build capacity in the arts sector to provide more accessible programming and opportunities. The goal of the program is to imbed accessibility into the ongoing operational aspects of arts organizations, to increase access to arts experiences and opportunities for Minnesotans with disabilities. Accessible Arts grants, ranging from $10,000 to $20,000, support efforts that will have longer-term impact, such as professional development related to accessibility, hiring accessibility consultants for audits or developing accessibility plans. The grants can also support smaller-scale physical enhancements and equipment acquisitions, including assistive listening devices, captioning equipment, handrails, grab bars and lever door handles, among other efforts. Funds cannot be used for day-to-day accessibility expenses, such as interpreters for performances. The Arts Board expects these expenses to be built into organizations’ standard operations. To learn more, contact Minnesota State Arts Board Program Officer Adam Wiltgen.