A new project designed to make immersive arts experiences more accessible for those with learning disabilities has been launched by Coventry University…
The project, entitled Inclusive Immersive, has been awarded almost £50,000 in funding from the Arts Council England’s National Lottery Project Grants and sees the university collaborate with Coventry-based Open Theatre, which works closely with young people with learning disabilities.
Rachel Farrer, Associate Director of Cultural and Community Engagement at Coventry University:
“We are thrilled to have secured funding from Arts Council England, which will enable us to lead a consortium of leading organisations spanning arts, technology and research. Together we will explore how immersive technology can be used more inclusively within the arts and entertainment sector, paving the way to more accessible and innovative projects that will enhance the lives of learning disabled artists and audiences.”
It also involves Vodafone, immersive media producers Hollywood Gaming and independent digital artist Ashley James Brown to explore how immersive technology can be used within the arts sector in more inclusive and accessible ways.
It is hoped this could result in new guidance for universities and arts organisations relating to immersive arts experiences. Coventry University is hosting workshops within its specialist technology facilities at the Delia Derbyshire building and an industry symposium at the end of the project to share the findings.
Peter Knott, Midlands Area Director at Arts Council England:
“We’re delighted to have funded this exciting new project, through National Lottery Project Grants, which brings together both the commercial and creative sectors. Digital artist Ashley James Brown and Coventry’s Open Theatre will work alongside Vodafone and Hollywood Gaming to explore immersive arts within the higher education setting.
“It’s great that the project allows learning disabled artists and audiences across Coventry to take part in innovative immersive experiences, and I look forward to seeing the installations created across Coventry next Spring.”
It involves a group of artists and participants working with new technologies to produce creative installations and performances, which will be seen in venues across Coventry in Spring 2025. Hollywood Gaming is hosting development sessions in its studio providing training and support to artists and participants to develop their ideas, using real time motion capture and across extended reality and immersive techniques.
Vodafone is providing free access to their 5G testbed site, enabling those taking part to test their prototypes and live broadcast performances and events. The project is overseen by Ashley James Brown who has brought together the arts and technology companies and is leading on the creative outputs.
Richard Hayhow, Company Director of Open Theatre:
“We and the artists at Open Theatre are excited to be working with Coventry University, Hollywood Gaming and Ashley James Brown to explore new ways for young people with learning disabilities to expand their creative practice with immersive technology. We have long championed innovative ways for young people with learning disabilities to contribute to the arts sector.”
To find out more about studying Digital Media in the School of Media and Performing Arts visit School of Art and Design | Coventry University
