New Research Group - ARiSE

The number 13 may be considered unlucky by some, but the 13 April 2026 was far from unlucky, as the wheels were set in motion for a new research group.    

Dr Grace Thomas is a Senior Research Fellow in Arts Engagement whose current research focuses on improving accessibility to the arts for disabled people and exploring how art can foster social justice. Part of the research to date included holding forums with disabled arts groups across Wrexham in 2025, drawing on the lived experiences and perspectives of disabled community members in the local area. 

Grace is working to bring together the people who have collaborated and contributed to her work in this space to date and has set up a research group to support this. The new group is called ARiSE (Arts Research for Inclusion and Social Equity) and Grace explained that the initial ARISE meeting series is launching “with 3 discussion sessions where the group can share ideas and discuss various aspects of disability and the arts. The goal is to bring a range of perspectives – disability activism, creative practices, academic methods, and mental health advocacy – to develop future projects, build new connections, and strengthen knowledge”.

The first session, held hybrid, was a wonderful collective of practitioners, researchers, individuals with lived experiences, and advocates. The in-person element of the meeting was held in a beautifully creative space in Wrexham Miner’s Project. The space hosts various community-based art initiatives including Disabilities Adult Art, Teen Art, and Adult Art to name but a few sessions. The precarious nature of the funding streams that supports the art sessions was highlighted by the team and this challenge was echoed. Testament was also given to the delicious food served in the onsite café housed within the Miner’s Project! 😋 

Once the meeting started, everyone had the opportunity to introduce themselves and share how they are connected to ARISE, which really helped to settle the group and create a welcoming environment. Grace provided an overview of her background, research passions and hopes for the group. 

There were breakout discussions around challenges faced as well as ‘blue sky thinking’ of potential goals and opportunities, each of which sparked really interesting and thought-provoking conversations. Topics ranged from the impact of venue costs to host accessible arts, transport issues, through to mental health wellbeing and arts within green spaces.

Some initial aims and objectives discussed, included:

• Creating and strengthening community links
• Robust impactful research with supporting data
• Providing upskilling, training, and qualification opportunities for individuals with disabilities
• A collective approach and support in securing funding
• Challenging the image and perception of people with disabilities (visible and non-visible)
• Identifying public spaces that feel safe and accessible that can be utilised by groups and individuals

Conversations also touched on the lack of awareness that still exists around individual needs, and how technology is still underutilised in supporting people with disabilities. It was also clear that members have a strong desire to empower others to find a way to succeed, and secure funding is a must within the field. Two hours passed by in a flash and the overall vibe at the end of the meeting was one of passion, energy and drive. The next session aims to define goals for ARISE and how these goals can be achieved. Watch this space for future updates.