Arts and Creativity

By participating in the arts, people with disabilities greatly contribute to our workplaces and communities, help bury old stereotypes regarding disability, and create a global culture truly representative of all people.

The arts enhance lives in many ways. They improve both personal and academic success, from the beginning of a child's education through the time of adulthood and career. Elementary school students who participate in music programs score higher in reading, mathematics, language, and overall achievement tests. Students who study the arts in high school earn higher test scores. And students who participate in studio art courses improve their writing and vocabulary skills. These findings underscore the value of the arts in positively shaping the lives of all people, including people with disabilities.

Because art is an infinite and unconditional field, people with disabilities are free to express themselves without physical, social, or attitudinal barriers.

Art is the universal language that has the ability to unite all people. The Arts and Creativity links (click on Recommended Web Sites in the upper right of this page) connects to organizations that encourage participation in visual arts, music, theater and dance.

Source: VSA