S.E.N.D - CREATIVE PORTAL
Some thoughts from Creative Portal - Be inspired
At Creative Portal we are working to ensure the platform adheres where possible to Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 o make our Web content more accessible to people with disabilities. Accessibility involves a wide range of disabilities, including visual, auditory, physical, speech, cognitive, language, learning, and neurological disabilities
YOU! Can help us by setting up a free digital portfolio on www.creativeportal.co.uk and tell us how we can evolve the portfolios and web platform to support you.
It is important that you start to research yourself in support of your career aspirations.
LETS START by introducing you to some examples of contemporary well-known individuals from the UK who have overcome disabilities to work in various creative industries.
Ellie Goldstein
The model and current British Vogue cover star, has shared a powerful message about the first Barbie doll with Down’s syndrome.
When I saw the doll, I felt so emotional and proud,” Ellie wrote on Instagram, adding: “It means a lot to me that children will be able to play with the doll and learn that everyone is different. I am proud that Barbie chose me to show the dolls to the world. Diversity is important as people need to see more people like me out there in the world and not be hidden away,”
Rose Alying-Ellis
Made history in 2021 by becoming the first deaf contestant to compete on the popular British TV show "Strictly Come Dancing." She is also known for her role as Frankie Lewis on the long-running soap opera "EastEnders."
Made history in 2021 by becoming the first deaf contestant to compete on the popular British TV show "Strictly Come Dancing." She is also known for her role as Frankie Lewis on the long-running soap opera "EastEnders."
Rose was diagnosed with a profound hearing loss at a young age and has used British Sign Language (BSL) as her primary means of communication. Despite her deafness, she has pursued a career in acting, determined to break barriers and challenge stereotypes in the entertainment industry.
Her casting as Frankie Lewis on the soap opera marked a significant moment for deaf representation on mainstream television. Ayling-Ellis's portrayal of Frankie has been praised for its authenticity and has helped raise awareness about deaf culture and issues and advocate for disability representation.
more great creatives
Katie Walters
Katie Walters is a graphic designer based in the UK who has overcome physical disabilities to excel in her field. Despite challenges related to mobility, she has built a successful career in graphic design, leveraging digital tools and adaptive technology to create impactful visual designs.
Charlie Mackesy
Charlie Mackesy is a renowned illustrator and author from the UK. Despite facing mental health challenges, including depression and anxiety, Mackesy has channeled his experiences into his art, creating emotive illustrations that resonate with audiences worldwide.
Chris Riddell
Chris Riddell is a prolific British illustrator and author known for his work in children's literature. Despite living with dyslexia, Riddell has achieved widespread acclaim for his intricate and imaginative illustrations, winning numerous awards for his contributions to the world of illustration
Joanna Quinn
Joanna Quinn is a British animator and filmmaker who has overcome challenges related to dyslexia to establish herself as a leading figure in the animation industry. Her distinctive animation style and storytelling abilities have earned her multiple awards and nominations, showcasing the potential for individuals with learning disabilities to thrive in creative fields.
Nicola Streeten
Nicola Streeten is a British writer, illustrator, and comics artist who has made significant contributions to the world of graphic storytelling. Despite facing challenges related to dyslexia, Streeten has published acclaimed graphic novels and comics, using her unique perspective to explore complex themes and narratives.
Mat Fraser
Mat Fraser is a British actor, musician, and writer who has achieved success in various creative endeavours despite being born with phocomelia, a congenital disorder that affects limb development. Fraser has appeared in film, television, and theater productions, challenging stereotypes and advocating for greater representation of disabled individuals in the performing arts.
Francesca Martinez
Martinez is a British comedian, writer, and actress who has cerebral palsy. Despite her physical disability, she has carved out a successful career in comedy, using her humor to challenge stereotypes and advocate for disability rights.
Jamie Hale
Hale, known professionally as Kode9, is a British electronic musician, DJ, and producer. He has achieved success in the music industry despite being diagnosed with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, a neurological disorder that affects muscle function and mobility.
Stella Young
Although originally from Australia, Stella Young made significant contributions to disability advocacy during her time in the UK. She was a writer, comedian, and disability rights activist known for her wit and humour in addressing issues related to disability and accessibility.
Aaron Williamson
Williamson is a British performance artist, poet, and writer who identifies as a deaf and disabled artist. He has gained recognition for his provocative and thought-provoking performances that challenge perceptions of disability and society's norms.
Jack Thorne
Thorne is a British playwright and screenwriter known for his work on stage and screen, including the acclaimed play "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child" and the television series "His Dark Materials." He has achieved success in the entertainment industry despite living with a visual impairment.
Julie Fernandez
Fernandez is a British actress known for her roles in television series such as "The Office" and "Eldorado." She has achieved success in the acting profession despite being born with osteogenesis imperfecta, a genetic disorder that results in brittle bones.
Great Creative Career Paths
In the creative industries, there are various career paths that can accommodate individuals with disabilities, including those mentioned. Here are some examples:
1.Graphic Design: This field offers opportunities for individuals with physical disabilities, sensory impairments, learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, speech and language disorders, and emotional and behavioural disorders. Graphic design often relies heavily on digital tools, allowing for flexibility in how work is executed.
2.Illustration: Similarly to graphic design, illustration can be a suitable career for individuals with various disabilities. It allows for creative expression through drawing, painting, or digital art, making it accessible to individuals with physical disabilities, sensory impairments, learning disabilities, and developmental delays.
3.Animation: Animation is a diverse field that encompasses various roles, including character design, storyboarding, and animation production. Individuals with disabilities such as physical disabilities, sensory impairments, learning disabilities, intellectual disabilities, and developmental delays can find opportunities in this field, especially with the use of assistive technologies and accommodations.
4.Writing and Editing: Careers in writing, editing, and content creation can be ideal for individuals with disabilities such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, speech and language disorders, and emotional and behavioural disorders. These roles often require strong communication skills and creativity, which individuals with disabilities can excel in with appropriate support.
5.Music Production: Individuals with disabilities, including those with physical disabilities, sensory impairments, and developmental delays, can pursue careers in music production. Technology has made it possible for individuals to create music using adaptive equipment and assistive technology.
6.Film and Video Production: Careers in film and video production encompass a wide range of roles, including directing, cinematography, editing, and sound design. Individuals with disabilities such as physical disabilities, sensory impairments, and developmental delays can contribute to various aspects of film and video production with accommodations and support.
7.Art Therapy: Art therapy is a field where individuals use creative processes to improve mental health and well-being. Professionals in this field can work with clients of all ages, including those with emotional and behavioural disorders, developmental delays, and chronic health conditions.
8.Fashion Design:Fashion design offers opportunities for individuals with disabilities, including those with physical disabilities and sensory impairments. Designing adaptive clothing and accessories can be a niche area within the fashion industry that addresses the needs of individuals with disabilities.
These are just a few examples, and there are many other career paths within the creative industries that can accommodate individuals with disabilities. It's important that you explore your interests and strengths, seek out career guidance and research advocacy for accommodations and support you may need to pursue your chosen career paths.
Adaptive tools to help in your creative journey
Here are some of the Adaptive Tools that can help your in future roles
These technologies and resources can assist individuals with disabilities overcome barriers and pursue successful careers in various creative fields, including graphic design, digital media, animation, and more.
2.Adaptive Keyboards and Mice: These devices are designed to accommodate individuals with physical disabilities. They may feature larger keys, customisable layouts, or alternative input methods such as trackballs or touchpads.
3.Graphic Design Software with Accessibility Features: Some graphic design software, like Adobe Creative Suite, offers accessibility features such as high contrast interfaces, keyboard shortcuts, and screen reader compatibility to make it easier for users with disabilities to create visual content.
4.3D Printing and Prototyping Tools: Individuals with physical disabilities can utilize 3D printing technology to create custom ergonomic tools or prototypes to assist them in their creative work.
5.Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR/VR) Tools: AR/VR technologies can provide immersive experiences and alternative interfaces for individuals with disabilities, enabling them to create and interact with digital content in new ways.
6.Assistive Drawing Tablets and Styluses: Drawing tablets with features like pressure sensitivity and customisable buttons can be paired with software like Autodesk SketchBook or Procreate to enable individuals with mobility impairments to create digital artwork.
7.Colour Vision Accessibility Tools: Colour blindness simulation tools and colour contrast checkers can help individuals with colour vision deficiencies ensure that their designs are accessible to all users.
8.Online Collaboration Platforms: Platforms like Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Google Workspace provide features such as real-time messaging, file sharing, and video conferencing, facilitating collaboration among team members regardless of their physical location or ability.