Arts

37 University of Atypical

University of Atypical empowers disabled, D/deaf and neurodiverse artists and puts their work at the heart of the Northern Irish scene. They work with all art forms and across all impairments, delivering a year-round programme of exhibitions and events. We spoke to Deirdre McKenna, Creative Programmes and Participation Lead.

What does University of Atypical do? We’re the only public gallery in the city that exclusively shows the work of D/deaf, disabled and neurodiverse artists. We also support artists through funding. We put on the Bounce Arts Festival, which is our annual highlight of what’s happening in disabled culture. The pandemic has disproportionately affected people with disabilities, because a lot of people have been shielding and feeling isolated. I’m an artist myself and I’ve got arthritis and a bone disease. I’ve learned a lot about myself through the process of becoming disabled.

What are some