It strikes me, as I arrive back into the Australian context from years as a practicing artist abroad, that inclusion as a word is used a lot here. It is now in the title of our action plans, marketing, funding applications, and used within the art making space. Artists with disability in Australia have traditionally advocated for it, families have fought for it, and arts organisations develop inclusive programmes. But what does the word mean and who does it serve? 

Recently I had the pleasure of watching Gerard O’Dwyer in 'The Interviewer' and Daniel Monks in 'The Wonderful World of Dissocia'. These actors were cleverly cast, demonstrated skill and made a memorable contribution to the creative product. 

I have been wondering for a while if it is more progressive to talk about contribution rather than inclusion, especially in the art making space. As an artist and project manager with disability, I know that I would much prefer my contributions to be valued and my access needs met, rather than being merely something to be passively included. Then we can let go of the connotations of exclusion, to have a conversation that starts with, “in order for me to contribute, this is what I need”.

Reach Sarah Houbolt, Access and Training Project Manager by email: shoboult@aarts.net.au