A street dance artist who integrates accessibility tools into performances is one of 10 artists awarded grants in the latest round of funding through the national Arts and Disability Initiative.
Creative Australia Executive Director Arts Investment Alice Nash said Geoffrey Lim, a deafblind street dance artist breaking new ground by integrating accessibility tools such as audio description and closed captions into street dance, was one of the group to share in $300,000 in grants.
Ms Nash said the latest recipients were involved in significant and innovative projects spanning dance, visual art, theatre, music, multi-arts and literature.
She said the investment aimed to extend the practice, networks, skills, and ambition of d/Deaf artists and art workers and those with disability.
“The artists we are supporting through this initiative are each pushing boundaries in their respective fields, while also expanding what it means to be accessible and inclusive.
“Their works demonstrate the power of creativity to reshape perceptions, break down barriers and inspire change, ensuring our arts truly reflect and are accessible to the rich diversity of people, perspectives and experiences that make up our country.”
Mr Lim said he would use his funding to create a dance work exploring loss, while building capacity to integrate access into street dance productions.
“We will be able to bridge the gap of accessibility in street dance communities, ensuring they become more inclusive for all participants.”
The other recipients of the 2024 Arts and Disability Initiative are:
- Anthony Sarre (WA).
- Avni Dauti (VIC).
- Asphyxia Asphyxia (NSW).
- Anwen Handmer (WA).
- Liam Adams (ACT).
- Sarah Tracton (VIC).
- Irene Holub (VIC).
- Christine Davey (VIC).
- Matthew Ottley (NSW).
