EUCREA

EUCREA is an association established in 1989 that advocates for the inclusion of artists with disabilities in the art and culture scene in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. The association brings together a diverse membership consisting of artists with and without disabilities, studios, companies, ensembles, foundations, organizations, and networks[2][5].

EUCREA strives for a society where all people can develop their talents, regardless of their abilities. Diversity and difference are seen as strengths, and inclusion is regarded as a driver for social development and justice. Art and culture serve as significant spaces for vision, encounter, and engagement, bringing people together in new ways and shaping the public image[2].

• Empowering Artists: EUCREA offers consultations, training, and networking opportunities through the INTO advisory service. This includes topics such as artistic studies, networking, professionalization, funding, and legal issues. Additionally, collected knowledge is published, and EUCREA forums for exchange and networking are provided[2].

• Inclusive Projects: EUCREA initiates and supports inclusive cultural projects, such as the "Democratic Bootcamp," where artists with and without learning difficulties collaboratively develop artistic productions. These projects aim to make artists with disabilities visible and audible and to bring new artistic impulses[1].

• Changing Framework Conditions: The association advises private and public educational institutions on implementing inclusion and supports the cultural and media industry in better integrating artists with disabilities. EUCREA also participates in political recommendations and raises awareness among professional offices and service providers for the necessary individual assistance[2].

• Changing Societal Images: Through various formats such as events, campaigns, and informational work, EUCREA works on changing public awareness regarding inclusion[2].

EUCREA advocates for fundamental changes in the art and culture sector. A central goal is the development of the model program ARTplus into a fixed component of artistic education to prepare young people with disabilities for entrance exams and studies. This aims to support not only artists with disabilities but also other disadvantaged groups[1].

Through expert conferences, public relations work, and political position papers, EUCREA is actively involved in public debates to make the creative market more accessible. Collaboration with international portals, such as the "Filmmakers" portal, enables better visibility for performers with disabilities and increases their chances in the job market[1].

EUCREA finances its work through project funding from federal and state governments as well as support from foundations. In the long term, the association plans to expand its team and employ more people with disabilities as soon as financially feasible[1].

• 1 - https://www.inklusives-arbeitsleben.lwl.org/interview_eucrea/
• 2 - https://www.eucrea.de/eucrea/
• 3 - https://www.eucrea.de/eucrea-ls
• 4 - https://www.gooding.de/eucrea-verband-kunst-und-behinderung-e-v-11097
• 5 - https://miz.org/de/institutionen/eucrea-e-v-i34386