Arts and Creativity

By participating in the arts, people with disabilities greatly contribute to our workplaces and communities, help bury old stereotypes regarding disability, and create a global culture truly representative of all people.

The arts enhance lives in many ways. They improve both personal and academic success, from the beginning of a child's education through the time of adulthood and career. Elementary school students who participate in music programs score higher in reading, mathematics, language, and overall achievement tests. Students who study the arts in high school earn higher test scores. And students who participate in studio art courses improve their writing and vocabulary skills. These findings underscore the value of the arts in positively shaping the lives of all people, including people with disabilities.

Because art is an infinite and unconditional field, people with disabilities are free to express themselves without physical, social, or attitudinal barriers.

Art is the universal language that has the ability to unite all people. The Arts and Creativity links (click on Resources tab at the of this page) connects to organizations that encourage participation in visual arts, music, theater and dance.

Source: VSA

A Reeve Foundation Fact Sheet on Arts and Creativity (PDF)

Art Theraphy StudioProvides therapeutic art programs in a variety of settings so people can benefit from the healing power of art.

Art Promote: Disabled ArtistsExplore thousands of art galleries, museums and artists from around the world. Browse by subject, medium, movement, nationality and more.

Axis Dance CompanyPrepare to leave all your preconceptions at the door — AXIS Dance Company, one of the world's most acclaimed and innovative ensembles of performers with and without disabilities, will change the way you think about the possibilities of the human body forever.

Association of Foot and Mouth Painting ArtistsOffers financial support to develop talents of painters who are accepted.

Disabled Online: Arts & EntertainmentArts and Entertainment Web links are sites that offer ways for individuals with disabilities to display their artistic talents. These clubs and organizations provide opportunities using all kinds of creative and cultural tools to allow individuals to express their artistic side.

Open Door Art StudioColumbus Center for Human Services, Inc. prioritizes health, safety, personal goals, and promotes positive community roles for individuals with disabilities.

VSACreates learning opportunities through the arts for people with disabilities.

Quality of Life Grants DatabaseFind resources within the PRC Quality of Life Grants Database. Search by Zip Code, State or an Entire Category.

Library Books and VideosFind resources within the PRC library catalog.

FREE: a comprehensive information tool for people affected by paralysis and for those who care for them. In English and Spanish. Request your copy. Read the online version.

Check out programs in your area on our one-of-a kind online searchable Quality of Life program database. You can search by location or topic. GO

The information provided in the Paralysis Resource Center was supported by Grant/Cooperative Agreement Number 1U59DD000338 from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The contents are solely the responsibility of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official views of CDC.