The July Forecast by Lauren Watson

Access

The past year has been tough on all forms of artistic practice, especially those requiring the use of space and studios to explore their own work or to share their skills with others. At first I found lockdown was a chance for rest, but I quickly grew restless, reinforcing the importance of connecting with the audience in any way, shape or form and how fundamental to my growth and the community this is. As communities adapted to new restrictions and turned to online streaming for showings, dance classes and workshops we started utilising mediums that assisted in making the arts more accessible. This made me question why it took so long for us to consider access to the arts in this way and will we continue to support accessibility moving forward.

When we think of access people often only consider if a space meets standard requirements for physical disability such as ramps or lifts, however access should be a lot broader. Other services that allow access to the arts include Auslan interpretation and audio description and this is just scratching the surface. Considering the needs of a wider population of people might seem daunting and overwhelming at first but the truth is it doesn’t need to be challenging when you know who to reach out to.

Personally, I have witnessed a shift in the way many people work and think around inclusion. For example over the last year I saw several site specific works, that by their very location create barriers for entry, these audiences were able to utilise zoom and other mediums for off-site viewing and at times also participation. These technologies allow us to reach wider audiences, including those in remote communities and offer more ways to connect with others no matter how isolated we are or feel.

As a person living with disability, access to classes and shows online allows for when I have weak days or mental health moments, to feel a connection to my community, even if this means showing up in my living room in last night’s clothes and messy hair. Oftentimes the struggle to leave the house is far too real for both those living with and without a disability and results in feelings of isolation. Having options for people to participate with their community can bolster spirits and keep us connected.

Moving forward, we hold the power to ensure access and inclusion is part of the planning process, taking time to consider all communities and how we can best reach those who find our societies “norm” challenging. If dance is the fundamental right of humans, then we as the facilitators and the community have the responsibility to put in place measures to be inclusive to all. Knowing you are missing out because of access is heartbreaking and frustrating, though over the last year I have seen many rise to become more inclusive. This change, while forced upon us due to circumstances beyond our reach, brought to light the missing link that allows us to grow far beyond what we thought was previously possible.

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MEET THE ARTIST: LAUREN WATSON

Lauren is a Yugambeh/Gold Coast based contemporary aerial circus performer, aerial instructor and performing artist. Drawing from stories past, present and future, Lauren’s work pushes the boundaries between what is achievable and what is perceived impossible. Lauren works as an aerial instructor and has created a program specifically for people with disability who are interested in a movement based practice and mentoring.

As a performer, Lauren has worked across multiple movement art forms and festivals including Bleach* (Shock Therapy Productions), Anywhere Theatre Festival (David Carberry), SuperCell (Ashley Musk) and Commonwealth Games Festival (Circus Corridor). She has also worked as a consultant in Access and Inclusion for people with disabilities for Circa and Supercell.

Lauren will present a solo physical theatre and circus work titled Nerve at 2021 Undercover Artist Festival in Brisbane, Directed by Celia White. Nerve looks at the complex tussle of truths of her identity while explores the fears, triumphs and complexities of everyday living.