In proposing the Art-Ability project, I am hoping to fill the void in the museum of programs for adults with cognitive disorders. This is a large yet often forgotten community that encompasses individuals with Down's syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorders or other mental illnesses.There are 5 main pedagogical goals backing this proposal.
1. End oppression by giving access to All.
At the most general level, expanding access to museums and art education ends a prevalent type of oppression, exclusion.
“Any situation in which some men prevent others from engaging in the process of inquiry is one of violence;… to alienate humans from their own decision making is to change them into objects.” ~Paula Friere, Pedagogy of the Oppressed
2. Fight Against Ageism
By providing programs for adults, we work against the idea that adults are "past their prime" or point of learning. Older adults should still have access to educational programming.
"Ageism can be seen as a process of systematic stereotyping of and discrimination against people because they are old… Old people are categorized as senile, rigid in thought and manner, old fashioned in morality and skills." ~Butler, 1975
3. Oppose Ableism
Ableism, the discrimination in favor of able-bodied or “normal” people is part of many systematic exclusions throughout history, from representation to access to institutions. Museum education is the next step for inclusive accessibility. By expanding accessibility to disabled persons, the museum would not only expand the audience but also provide more opportunities for critical discourse.
4. Learn through Play!
Play is a vital part of learning and processing. Museum programming should be fun for everyone in order to open access and make connections.
5. Art-making for Communication
Every session will include a time for art-making. This is a critical time to process and communicate what was seen on the tour, especially for non-verbal learners and communicators, as many individuals with cognitive disabilities are.