Aspen Art Museum recently launched an educational program, Art Incorporated (or Art Inc.), that is geared toward elementary-aged children living with any sort of disability, with lessons and activities catered to each student. The initial session in February was coined “Sensory Explorers,” when participants were encouraged to dress to make a mess and created several spectacular pieces together.

Lydia Ent, the education programs associate for the museum, looks forward to seeing how the program takes off in tandem with her efforts to expand accessibility within the museum’s education programming. 

“The beautiful part about our initial four months of launching our pilot program is that we’re getting to experiment and explore what works and what doesn’t work,” she told The Sopris Sun, “and how we can continue evolving to best fit the needs of the community here in the Valley.”

Ent — who has been with the museum since September last year, but got her start in the local art scene through an internship with Anderson Ranch Arts Center — describes herself as an adaptive art educator. 

“I think it can be a common misconception that art is solely for those who can see or solely for those who can use their hands. I disagree, to be frank. I think there are so many ways to adapt art.” For instance, she added, “There are amazing tools where you can attach a paintbrush to a wheelchair and paint on a flat surface.”  

Upcoming installments of the program include the following: “Calm Creations” (March 29) will entail students exploring sensory-sensitive activities with mess-free materials, such as paper-based works and sculptural activities; “Texture Adventure” (April 26) will focus on exploring different textures and how they can be incorporated into pieces; and “Sound Builders” (May 31) delves into how sound and art combined can create something dynamic and exciting. Each offering is from noon to 2pm. Beyond the spring season, Ent has hopes to resume sessions in the summer. 

The museum is partnering with Emma Martin of Access Creates, LLC to help foster collaboration and exploration among the participants. Ent also hopes to reach students further down valley, and even into the Colorado River Valley. 

“I think that’s something that as the program continues to grow is also going to evolve,” Ent said. “Everybody is welcome in this program and in this space. The Museum does a great job of providing assistance with transportation costs and other expenses, especially for our education programs. That’s something that I’m still hoping to grow within this program.” 

“I believe that all people are capable of making art and experiencing art with the proper support,” she concluded. “I’m hoping that this program is just a small form of support for the kiddos in the Valley.” 

For more information on Art Incorporated, or to sign up for an upcoming session, visit www.aspenartmuseum.org