Artistic Minds

How do we build a cultural sector that actually includes young artists with intellectual disabilities?

Young creators with intellectual disabilities continue to face systemic exclusion from the cultural and creative sectors. Despite growing awareness, they are often seen as passive participants or therapeutic cases - rather than as creators, professionals, or innovators in their own right. The rapid shift toward digitalization during the pandemic has only widened the gap, as many platforms and tools remain inaccessible or poorly adapted to neurodiverse needs. We work together across Europe to address this gap. We co-create a competency framework that reflects the real needs and strengths of young artists with intellectual disabilities. We test digital tools that are simple, adaptive, and focused on creative expression. We support inclusive ways of working, where these young people are not just included, but actively shape the future of culture.