An inclusive arts studio where disabled artists create, express, and exhibit on their own terms — fully adaptive, radically welcoming.
Every medium, tool, and technique in our studio is available in adaptive formats. We design creative access into every program from the start — never as an afterthought, always as a foundation.
Disabled artists lead our programs, curate our exhibitions, and set our studio's creative agenda. We reject the therapeutic framing that positions disability as something art can fix; we know it as something art reveals.
Our work belongs in the world, not just in our studio. We run twelve public exhibitions per year — from gallery shows to community spaces to online platforms — ensuring visibility for artists often unseen.
Open Canvas Studio was purpose-designed for full physical and sensory accessibility. Our space features adjustable-height workstations, wheelchair-accessible storage and display systems, sensory-calm quiet areas, and noise-managed workshop zones.
We stock adaptive tools including mouth-held brushes, weighted implements, grip aids, ergonomic seating, and specialized grip surfaces. If you use a tool we do not have, we will source it.
Every program is offered in in-person, remote, and hybrid formats, with BSL interpretation, audio description, and plain-language materials available on request.
Our StoryA relaxed, unpressured first visit to meet our studio team, see the space, and discuss access needs, creative interests, and what you are hoping to find. No commitment required.
We work with you to identify the equipment, support, and scheduling that will make your studio practice genuinely workable. This is a collaborative conversation, not a form to fill in.
Choose your entry point — open studio, art therapy, digital arts, or group workshops. You are always free to change programs, combine streams, or step back and return as your energy allows.
Over time, studio members develop coherent bodies of work supported by one-to-one mentorship from practicing artist facilitators. We help you articulate your vision and develop your practice.
When you are ready, we support you through the full process of exhibiting publicly — from curation to installation to artist statements. Your work will be seen.
Twelve disabled artists and two facilitators launched what was then called The Wednesday Studio — a weekly open session in a community centre's accessible ground-floor room.
A gallery show featuring works by twenty-two studio members ran for three weeks and received coverage in regional arts press. Several artists sold work for the first time.
A purpose-built, fully accessible studio space opened, designed with full input from disabled artist members. The first studio in the region designed entirely around access as the primary brief.
A fully remote-accessible digital arts program using switch-access and voice-controlled tools extended participation to artists unable to attend in person.
A national arts bursary award recognized Open Canvas as the leading disability arts collective in the country. Membership stands at 220 artists from fourteen different disability communities.
There is no prior experience required and no audition. Every artist is welcome regardless of ability, diagnosis, or background. Our studio and all its programs are fully accessible.
We will respond within three working days. If you would like to speak with someone before submitting a form, please call us or drop in during any open studio session.