Our Philosophy

Too Long Didn’t Read (TLDR): Mixed Creative Arts Studio creates artistic, safe spaces to explore and expand one’s creativity within dance, art, and writing, and with collaborations with musicians. We provide accessible arts programming for disabled and non-disabled people, and are led by two disabled facilitators.

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Why multiple art forms: Mixed Creative Arts Studio believes that when multiple art forms come together in one space the opportunity for artistic growth and inspiration increases. We primarily focus on cultivating a creative skillset within the fields of dance, art, and writing. We also use music in every class, or partner with local musicians. Within one class, one can engage in dance, then switch to art, then switch to writing, for example. One can also choose one art form to stick with, such as writing, and use inspiration from the other art forms to inspire their writing.

Creating a mixed arts class increases accessibility in each field of art. One may never attend a poetry/writing class, but love to dance. This person may attend and start with dancing, but soon realize that trying poetry/writing might not be fully out of their realm of learning and creating.

Accessibility for disabled people: Additionally, we understand that the arts have not been historically accessible to people with disabilities. Whether they were held in buildings that were physically inaccessible or academic settings that left out anyone but the “intellectually elite”, predominantly non-disabled people have been excluded from arts education for centuries. We strive to follow the lead of those most marginalized in the disabled community, including the Principles of Disability Justice (Sins Invalid).

Dance Accessibility: Speaking specifically to the dance community of the 21st century, many studios train for dancers to mimic one form or one “correct” version, mainly for dancers who can dance standing only. In our dance & movement philosophy we intentionally teach that one can dance standing, seated, lying down, or in a combination of positions that works right for them. We believe that anyone can dance while, if they choose, still learning technique, stage presence, musicality, rhythm, and emotional-physical expression that applies to their body’s unique needs and goals. One can choose to dance on Zoom with the camera off.

Choice: Centering one’s own autonomy is key to our philosophy and creative processes. Every step of the way, each participant can choose their own level of personal and collaborative participation, and of course, their preferred art form. Our facilitators aim to give multiple options within every creative prompt, and “doing your own thing” is always an option as well.