Radical Access: The Future of Access in the Arts

Meeting access needs is good, but we can do better. It’s time for more than just the bare minimum in accessible art both for audiences and artists!

Melbourne Fringe is at the forefront of accessibility thinking with Radical Access, their 10-year social change project in partnership with Arts Access Victoria. Join us for a bold and creative discussion on the future of accessible artmaking with artists who are leading the space.

In 10, 20 or even 40 years’ time, how does the arts industry need to change to champion inclusivity? How can we use technology to create better and more accessible experiences for artists and audiences? What do we want best or better practice to look like? And how can we go beyond just meeting access needs, and work towards cultural equality?   

Hosted by Melbourne Fringe’s Access Advisor Carly Findlay, and informed by conversations with future strategist Ana Tiquia, the evening will begin with a screening of a segment of The Last Disabled Oracle, a work created by American writer and disability activist Alice Wong for the Assembly for the Future.  

Artist and writer Fayen D’Evie will then host a discussion with four guest speakers: writer and artist Asphyxia, writer and comedian Alistair Baldwin, poet Andy Jackson, and dancer and performer Melinda Smith. 

After the panel discussion, explore our exhibition The Rest Is Up To You: Melbourne Fringe 1982-2062 in its final week, closing Friday 7 July. Grab a drink from the bar and enjoy a pop-up performance by the cabaret and theatre performer, Artemis Muñoz. 

Accessibility information

This event will be Auslan interpreted and livestreamed. A quiet space will be available and the venue is wheelchair accessible. Masks and sanitiser will be available, and social distancing will be encouraged.

View the sensory map and accessible exhibition labels for The Rest Is Up To You exhibition.

Learn more about access and inclusion at State Library Victoria. 

This event is presented by State Library Victoria and Melbourne Fringe. It is part of Melbourne Fringe’s Radical Access program.