Arts Project Australia’s advocacy of the right of people with an intellectual disability to pursue careers as practising artists has received formal recognition from the federal government through the funding of a supported employment program.
Under this scheme, individuals from the studio workshop, who have an established record of showing and selling their work are assisted to pursue careers as visual artists.
Individuals are effectively self-employed, deriving income from the sale of their work. Support is provided in areas such as promotion and marketing, which, due to the nature of their disability, many people may find difficult to negotiate. This program has had considerable success.
Artists have been selected for inclusion in major art prizes and shows such as the prestigious Moet & Chandon Travelling Exhibition, featured in leading art magazines, exhibited in mainstream commercial galleries and had their work purchased by private collectors and public institutions both here and overseas.
The Supported Employment Program is funded by the Australian Department of Families, Housing, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs.
