Oxford,
25
October
2016
|
09:40
Europe/London

City gears up for first disability arts festival

An eye-catching art festival celebrating the work of disabled children is rolling into Cowley’s Ark-t Centre this Saturday (29 October, 11am-4pm).

The RoAR festival is the first of its kind in Oxfordshire, and will showcase how arts and culture are being integrated into the support provided for disabled children and their families.

It rounds off a series of creative projects involving six organisations commissioned by the council to provide short breaks services for children and their families, and five arts organisations supporting disabled children and young people aged from five to 21.

Great opportunity

Director of the Ark-t Centre Emmy O'Shaughnessy said: "It’s been fantastic for the children and young people to engage in mainstream arts and cultural activities led by local organisations.

"The projects have also enabled key arts organisations in Oxfordshire to develop their skills and improve provision for children with disabilities and their families. This is a great opportunity to show the value we are placing on the young people and their artwork.”

Workshops

As well as displaying the work of the young people involved, The RoAR Festival, which is funded by Oxfordshire County Council and Artswork, will include creative workshops for both invited participants and the general public. The young people will also be receiving certificates for gaining or working towards Arts Awards.

Oxfordshire County Council’s Cabinet Member for Children, Education and Families Melinda Tilley said: “Well done to all the young people who have taken part in what has been an excellent partnership project. Holding this festival not only provides a platform to celebrate their achievements but also helps to promote disability awareness for art and cultural providers.”

Event details

The event runs from 11am-4pm on Saturday, 29 October at the Ark-t Centre, Crowell Road, Oxford, OX4 3LN. Everyone is welcome to attend.