2 inches from exclusion to inclusion

NORWALK — Artists' Open Studio is celebrating a major step toward accessibility after receiving a grant from the Norwalk Elks that funded the purchase of 10 new handicap-accessible adjustable tables. "These tables are really beautiful. They're really sturdy," studio executive director Lindsey Esker said. "It doesn't matter how high your wheelchair is: If you need to sit or stand, or if you have different needs with your chair, we wanted to make creating accessible to everyone with these tables." The tables, which cost about $1,200 each, were delivered last week after nearly a year of research and grant writing. The project began in October when the studio applied for support from the Norwalk Elks Lodge. The studio had previously relied on older, more cumbersome tables that "took five people to adjust up and down" and were difficult to make safe and usable for artists with mobility needs, according to Jackie Hug, program manager of the studio. What is Artists' Open Studio? Artists' Open Studio is a nonprofit arts collective that provides inclusive creative space for people of all abilities. The organization offers studio space, workshops and gallery exhibitions with a mission of fostering creativity, independence and community. Its programs serve a wide range of artists — from professional painters to first-time creators — and intentionally include people with developmental disabilities, mobility challenges and other support needs, according to its website. The studio also operates as a public gallery, inviting the wider community to view exhibitions, participate in events and engage with local art. Its guiding principle is universal design: creating spaces where everyone, regardless of age or ability, can participate fully in creative expression. People can learn more by visiting facebook.com/artistsopenstudioinc. Impact of the new tables The difference has already been felt by participants. One new artist who uses a wheelchair and communicates with a device had been hesitant when she first began attending sessions. At first, she simply sat in the space and observed. But over three weeks, her comfort grew. "Last week, for the first time, she wanted to get closer to the table," Hug recalled. "Her right arm was stuck, and I said, 'No problem, let me give it a crank down.' It was just 2 inches, and it changed everything. She just went for it." That small adjustment, they said, highlighted the transformative power of the new equipment. "Two inches is the difference between inclusion and exclusion. Two inches is the difference between independence and dependence," Hug said. The tables are not only helping artists with developmental disabilities but are designed with universal access in mind. "If your grandmother comes here in her wheelchair, we can make her comfortable in our gallery. Whether you're creating in the studio or visiting an exhibit, the tables adjust so everyone can participate," Esker added. The studio currently has 10 tables and hopes to acquire two more to meet growing needs. Beyond the tables, organizers emphasized that accessibility is a continuing commitment, from wide doorways to flexible gallery layouts. "These tables were made exactly for what we needed, and now we're seeing that come to life in real time," Hug said. "It's creating so many opportunities and community."