Rolling with Sarah

When you are disabled, it can be easy to feel like you don’t fit into your community. That is why when a community group is open and accessible it is so refreshing. The Community Art Group run by Rideau Community Health Services is just that.

This is a safe place where everyone is welcome and free to create whatever they feel like. The rule is no commenting on someone else’s art, so there is no pressure or negative influence. There is no “oh that’s so good” for certain people, while critics of another piece stay quiet. That way  opinions of others aren’t a factor influencing what you want to express. This group is accessible to people of all skill levels. You can be an amateur, a regular artist, or this could be your first time picking up a paintbrush –  it doesn’t matter. We chat, laugh, create, and spend a relaxing time expressing ourselves through many different mediums. Every class is different. We can take the instruction for what it is and go down our own path is we choose to do so. You may be proud of your piece and cherish it, or you may just not feel it and set is aside. That is completely up to you.

We recently were temporarily relocated from our space at the Merrickville health centre due to renovations. I was a little worried about where we would move to as there are limited options for spaces I can get into within our village. Luckily, the organizer was able to find space at the Pews. I have mentioned this space before. Though the space is not perfect (and truthfully few spaces are in my experience), I am able to access the main space in my wheelchair through the front door with a little help from someone to open the new, lighter door.  Since I last posted, a wedge has been added to the entrance making it a little easier. 

Before confirming the space, the organizer invited me down to help them determine whether the basement or main floor would be more suitable for our group. I was touched that they cared enough to meet me and test out the premises to determine which space would work best. I felt honoured that they valued my opinion and grateful that accessibility was seen as an important factor for selecting a new temporary home, as I am not the only one with a disability.  We decided on the main floor as I could get in more independently. The washrooms on the main floor were accessible to me and handy for washing brushes and cleaning up other art supplies. Also, there was no wedge at the entrance to the basement, so I would require major assistance (and an expert wheely) to get in.

This past week I was given the chance to lead the group on a painting technique I love. I call it bubbles. You paint cups and other objects with rings to make imprints of perfect circles, then using different colours create a three-dimensional bubble You can do different sizes, colours, overlap them, do many, do only a few, the potential is endless. I taught the basic technique and then let everyone’s imagination run wild. I want to say a big thank you to the group for being so receptive and supportive of my first time leading a session. Everyone’s kindness gave me the confidence to share this fun method I had discovered. My favourite compliment was when someone asked me if I was an art teacher. When I replied no, they grasped my hand and whispered “Yes, you are.” I can’t begin to describe the joy that brought me.

I love that I have this creative outlet where everyone is accepted. No matter your age,  abilities, background, or anything else, you are welcomed with open arms. Accessibility isn’t just about ramps and buttons on doors. It is about inclusivity and  making sure all people feel like they belong.