QAGOMA has recently introduced a new initiative to support visitors with disability, particularly a hidden or ‘invisible’ disability that might not be immediately apparent. We are now a proud member of the Hidden Disability Sunflower Program, which enables visitors with disability to tacitly communicate their need for support by wearing a sunflower lanyard or pin. Our trained staff can then assist such visitors by offering more time, a quiet space, access to a seat, or simply more understanding during their visit. The Hidden Disability Sunflower Program ensures that all visitors to QAGOMA can feel safe and supported. Sunflower lanyards and pins are free for visitors and are available to collect from the information desks.

Hidden Disability Sunflower Program

Here at QAGOMA, we are committed to creating a space that is accessible to and inclusive of all people through our involvement in the community, which contributes to a broader message of empowerment for people with disability; and through our range of accessible tours and programs that aim to provide a safe and welcoming environment to visitors of all abilities.

As a society, it is important that we switch up our thinking to advance the issues of equity and inclusion, and to regard disability as a positive social identity both for individuals and throughout the wider disability community. Art galleries and other cultural institutions play an important role in driving social change, shifting perceptions and challenging negative attitudes around accessibility and inclusion, yet visiting an art gallery can pose unique challenges for people with disability, and the complex nature of those challenges can lead to social and physical exclusion. QAGOMA recognises this importance, valuing inclusion and access as central to how we work with audiences, artists, supporters and each other.

A variety of accessible features and programs are currently available for the immersive sensory exhibition, ‘Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses’ at Brisbane’s Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) until 7 October 2024 — a first for Australian audiences — which features 130 garments and accessories from across the designer’s career. The exhibition brings van Herpen’s designs into conversation with contemporary artworks, natural history specimens and rare manuscripts to explore these myriad influences.

Included is a sensory information sheet and exhibition floorplan, accessible digital wall labels and didactics, a video introduction of the exhibition delivered in Auslan, and a range of special accessible tours and programs for visitors who are members of the deaf community or who have hearing loss, and visitors with low or no vision. A low-sensory, relaxed viewing of the exhibition is intended to enable visitors with Autism or sensory sensitivity to experience the exhibition outside usual opening hours, and a quiet zone and sensory kits are available to anyone feeling overwhelmed.

‘Iris van Herpen: Sculpting the Senses’

Human diversity stimulates creativity, artistic expression and imagination; it’s essential in the arts. Without measures in place to ensure equitable access and inclusion, people will remain separated and stagnant — the creative spark is lost in a veritable sea of sameness. The more accepting of human diversity we can become as a society, the more we will challenge each other to greater heights of creativity. QAGOMA proudly champions access, diversity and inclusion, allowing artists to push the boundaries of what is possible and inspiring visitors of all abilities to create lasting connections with art. Through its ongoing commitment to Access programs, such as September Access Month, low-sensory viewings, and our award-winning Art and Dementia program, to name just a few, the Gallery strives to create a truly inclusive space for the whole community.

Laura Walker is Program Officer, Access, QAGOMA
This text is adapted from an essay first published in QAGOMA’s Members’ magazine, Artlines

The Gallery’s Hidden Disability Sunflower Program membership is generously supported by Alida Rae Mayze.

The Art and Dementia program at QAGOMA is supported by 20/20 Optical and Morgans Foundation.