Ability Arts Connect MNC is a free two-day event to celebrate and connect artists living with disability, their carers and support organisations on the Mid North Coast. It includes a conference, art workshops and the inaugural Phoenix Art Prize exhibition opening.

The conference aims to both inform and learn from artists with lived experience of disability and other stakeholders. Guest speakers include Carly Marchment, who will talk about her experience as a professional artist with a disability, Ashleigh Frost, the Curator of Yarrilla Arts & Museum at Coffs Harbour, and Dr Emma Gentle, Art Therapist and Academic. There is also an open forum session to discuss the needs of artists in the region, share experiences and build connections.

Supported art workshops in ceramics & painting will be run as an option for artists not wanting to participate in the conference.

On Saturday 3rd August we will have the Phoenix Art Prize exhibition opening, artist talks and announcement of the prize winners. The Phoenix Winter Ball will also be held on Saturday night at the Nambucca Heads RSL Club. This will be a great opportunity to meet new people and dance the night away!

The Art exhibition is a celebration of the diversity of art practice from artists with lived experience of disability. It is an opportunity for artists to experience works by other artists and to acknowledge and celebrate the contribution that artists with disability make to the arts and cultural landscape on the Mid North Coast.

Registrations are essential for the conferences and workshops and the ball. Book here

Hope to see you all there for a great weekend of connection and sharing of ideas!