A partnership between the Art Gallery of Western Australia (AGWA), the Gallery’s voluntary guides and the Autism Association of Western Australia, is aimed at creating more opportunities for inclusion in the arts for people with autism.
The partnership is the first program in the AGWA’s Quiet Tuesday initiative, designed to provide access opportunities to community groups on Tuesdays, a day when the Gallery is closed to the general public.
The closure allows the Gallery to offer a quiet, desensitised experience for individuals who may require a different environment to appreciate and access the State Art Collection.
Director at the AGWA, Colin Walker (pictured) said the partnership will result in three family days held across school holidays in 2021.
“Activated by the AGWA Learning team, Autism Association staff and the AGWA’s voluntary Gallery guides, these days will feature multi-generational art activities, guided tours, and low sensory spaces,” Mr Walker said.
“The Autism Association will also provide ongoing training for Gallery staff and guides.”
He said ensuring the Gallery was an accessible and enjoyable place for everyone was at the core of the Gallery’s forward strategic plan.
“We are delighted to be partnering with the Autism Association of Western Australia to ensure that the space is inclusive, safe and welcoming for the autism community,” Mr Walker said.
The launch of the partnership also celebrated the winners of the Arts and Autism art competition run by the Autism Association and the AGWA.
A total of 16 winners were announced as well as the People’s Choice Award winner determined via community voting.
