As We Are

As We Are is an important community initiative in Western Australia that aims to bring joy and wellbeing to the lives of artists with intellectual disability and those who are part of the experience.

Inspired by the creative expression of artists with intellectual disability and a belief in equal opportunities, As We Are was initiated in 2002 as a one-off art award and exhibition and has grown to become a prestigious and significant event on the WA arts calendar. The annual As We Are Art Awards features a diversity of artwork from than 150+ artists with intellectual disablity across the State, including painting, textiles, sculpture, drawing, jewellery, collage and print-making - all of which are available for sale.

In the past 19 years, As We Are has also expanded to include a number of initiatives aimed at recognising and valuing the creative expression of WA artists with intellectual disability and their contribution to the Western Australian arts and broader community. Initiatives inlcuding: a monthly e-newsletter, select exhibitions & pop-up art shops, a Disability & the Arts Network and respective annual Forum, and art workshops to name but a few.

Through the years As We Are has been supported by the dedication and passion of diverse individuals and organisations in coordinating this initiative.  It is a project that is not owned by any one organisation but is organised by a community who is moved by the foundational ethos and spirit of As We Are, the inspiring and creative achievements of artists who have an intellectual disability, and the exciting possibilities and potential of things to come.