“Art therapy utilizes visual arts to enrich the lives of individuals with disabilities. By exploring different creative activities, adults with disabilities learn how to uniquely express themselves and build technical skills along the way.
This integrative and creative therapy has numerous benefits that include building self-esteem, enhancing communication, growing social skills, and more. With art therapy, individuals with disabilities have an outlet to explore their creativity, discover new passions, and boost their self-confidence.” [1]
“However, for people with disabilities, traditional art supplies and techniques can sometimes present challenges. Fortunately, there are many adaptive tools and technologies that make arts and crafts accessible to people with a wide range of abilities.” [2]
“Assistive technology for adaptive art includes special equipment or tools that help people with different abilities express themselves creatively. For example, someone with trouble holding a paintbrush might use a special handle that’s easier to grip, or someone with vision problems might use a computer program that turns shapes and colors into sounds. This technology is important because it allows everyone, no matter their abilities, to make and enjoy art.” [3]
See below a list of 10 adaptative art tools:
Other Tips
” Stabilizers or tremor cancellation devices can help with fine motor tasks.
Magnification can assist with detailed work such as sewing and needlecraft.
Tools can be attached to different areas of the body (like using a hat or head pointer).
Tools can be attached to wheelchairs, walkers, and other mobility aids to create larger works. Artists can also create using gross motor movements!” [3]
“We believe that everyone should have access to the joy and fulfilment of creating art. With these ingenious gadgets and a little creativity, the world of arts and crafts becomes more accessible than ever before. There’s no limit for creativity.”
Resources
[1] https://covey.org/art-therapy/
[3] https://techowlpa.org/dogs-page/adaptive-art/
[4]https://solano.networkofcare.org/aging/assistive/detail.aspx
[5] https://www.especialneeds.com/tabletop-spring-scissors.htm
[6] https://www.dickblick.com/products/copernicus-tabletop-easel/
[7] https://www.dickblick.com/products/brent-wheelchair-accessible-power-wheel-16/
[8] https://www.especialneeds.com/shop/furniture/theradapt-extended-easels.html
[9] https://www.schoolspecialty.com/shop-by-learning-model/adapted-inclusive/art-supplies-craft-supplies