Funds Support Deaf Artists and Artists with Disabilities
The Ontario Arts Council (OAC) has established resources for Deaf artists and artists with disabilities.
OAC’s new strategic plan, Vital Arts and Public Value, identifies Deaf artists and artists with disabilities as a new priority group. A number of initiatives have been established to support this group.
Support for costs to prepare applications
OAC will provide up to $500 per individual in one fiscal year towards the costs of accessibility services [e.g. translation from American Sign Language (ASL) or langue des signes québécoise (LSQ) to English or French, a personal assistant to read aloud OAC documents or to transcribe verbal responses and prepare the written application, assistive devices or software]. Artists are responsible for arranging the accessibility support.
Support for accessibility costs for applicants
Applicants with a disability or who are Deaf, may also apply for financial support towards the costs of accessibility services related to realizing a project (e.g. ASL/LSQ interpretation, personal assistants, transportation, assistive devices or software). Funds toward these costs will be awarded in addition to the artists’ grant. For details, please contact the granting officer responsible for the program of your choice.
Deaf and Disability Arts Projects program
OAC has established a new program dedicated to Deaf artists and artists with disabilities. Program guidelines and application forms will be available in Spring 2015. The deadline for this program is July 3, 2015.
New Video Featuring Deaf Artists and Artists with Disabilities
Watch Boundless: Deaf Artists, Artists with Disabilities and OAC to learn about the experiences of Deaf artists and artists with disabilities who have applied for grants or participated in juries. The video incorporates ASL and LSQ and enhanced captioning.