Forums on Careers in the Arts
for People with Disabilities

In September 2003, the Washington State Arts Commission (WSAC) and VSA arts of Washington (VSAAW) co-hosted a series of Forums on Careers in the Arts for People with Disabilities in Spokane, Seattle, and Vancouver, Washington. The Forums were sponsored by the National Endowment for the Arts, VSA arts, the National Arts and Disability Center at the University of California Los Angeles, the Social Security Administration, WSAC and VSAAW.

Forward Focus:
Forums on Careers in the Arts for People with Disabilities in Washington State Following the Forums the input and information was compiled, published and distributed in a booklet entitled Forward Focus. Forward Focus is available upon request in either print or alternate formats by contacting Bitsy Bidwell at (360) 586-2421 or email bitsyb@arts.wa.gov. You may also view or download the booklet and notes from the Forums on the Community Arts Development page of WSAC’s web site (http://www.wa.arts.gov). The discussion continues on WSAC’s web site where you may respond to the question “What can we best do to advance careers in the arts for individuals with disabilities in Washington State?

Pathways to Employment Conferences:
You may also pick up a print copy of Forward Focus at the VSAAW/WSAC booth during the Pathways to Employment Conferences in various communities around the state this summer and fall. These conferences are being sponsored by the Washington Work Incentives Network (WIN) to provide resources and information about employment for people with disabilities. Registration is required and is limited to 150 participants. Lunch, including vegetarian choices will be provided. Both registration and lunch are free. To register, email your name (and agency, if any) to HaileCR@dshs.wa.gov.