Oslo Open maps accessibility in artists' studios
Oslo Open has launched a project to assess the accessibility of artists’ studios in Oslo. Working with Fafo, FFO, UngFunk, BO, and UKS, the project aims to understand current conditions and recommend improvements to make workspaces more accessible for artists and audiences with disabilities.
February 14 2025
Expanding access to artists’ workspaces
Oslo Open has long focused on making contemporary art more accessible to the public. This new initiative shifts attention to artists’ workspaces, examining how accessible they are for artists with disabilities. The project, which began in 2024, will offer both quantitative and qualitative insights into studio accessibility.
The Fafo Institute for Labour and Social Research is conducting the study, using a combination of surveys, interviews, and on site visits. A reference group, including representatives from Visual Artists in Oslo (BO), Young Artist’s Association (UKS), The Norwegian Federation of Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (FFO), and Disabled Youth Norway (UngFunk), has contributed to the study’s development. They will also assist in analysing the findings and making recommendations for further action.
– We want to counteract discrimination in the workplace by ensuring that artists with disabilities have access to the production spaces they need. This project will provide a strong foundation for both immediate and long-term changes, says Frida Rusnak, Director of Oslo Open.
Turning knowledge into action
Once the data is collected, the reference group will help develop recommendations based on the findings. The survey will be presented at a seminar at Kulturhuset in Oslo on Thursday, 24 April. In addition to providing new insights into artists and studios in Oslo, the report will outline recommendations to improve accessibility in workspaces. The goal is to create a more inclusive and accessible arts sector in Oslo and, eventually, throughout Norway.
This project is part of a long-term effort to improve accessibility in the arts. Oslo Open will continue working towards greater accessibility and welcomes additional partners to join the initiative. Potential collaborators include public and private property owners, Oslo municipality, individual artists, associations, and arts organisations.
At the launch seminar, held in collaboration with Norwegian Live (NKA), artists and cultural workers will share examples of initiatives and projects that promote inclusion and accessibility within the fields of visual and performing arts, and music.
The publication of the survey is just one step in an ongoing process.
– This is an important step towards a more inclusive arts sector. We hope the results of the study will lead to meaningful changes, ensuring that studios are accessible to all artists, regardless of their access needs, says Katinka Maraz, Chair of Oslo Open.
Collaboration and funding
The survey is being conducted by Fafo researchers Terje Olsen and Gunhild Frisell.
The reference group, which has provided input and recommendations throughout the process, includes Oda Oftung (UngFunk), Robyn Grøndahl (FFO Oslo), Johanne Laache (UKS), Maya Økland (BO, FFF), and artist, curator, and accessibility consultant Aidan Moesby. Frida Rusnak is responsible for the project, on behalf of Oslo Open.
The survey and seminar are funded by Balansepotten, Bufdir, and Kulturrådet.