Digital access is not an optional add-on. It is an essential form of equity.
Digital access matters.
For many, attending a gallery, theatre, talk, or festival is straightforward.
For others, it is impossible – or even dangerous.
Disabled, chronic illness, injury, neurological conditions, immunocompromised, energy-limited, neurodivergent, caring roles, and geographical distance: there are countless reasons why audiences cannot safely or practically attend in person.
Without dedicated digital options, whole communities remain excluded.
Digital Access in the Arts
Too often, cultural organisations treat “putting something online” as an afterthought. It isn’t. Digital access is not a substitute for live programming – it is programming, and is an important element in accessibility.
Access Online is Different
For many audiences, immunological safety and sensory consideration are vital. Digital access needs are not “lighter” than in-person needs – they are different.
That means: avoiding flicker, minimising background noise, reducing jerky camera movements, pacing content appropriately, having breaks and designing experiences that respect limited cognitive or physical energy.
With a small amount of modification and knowledge, these elements are easy to incorporate.
Digital access is how people who cannot walk through your door experience your work, on equal terms.
Challenging Misconceptions
A common sector belief is that digital access reduces live audiences, or “less bums on seats”.
Our experience proves otherwise. These are not audiences lost to online viewing – they are currently missing audiences.
Another misconception is that digital offerings are “extras.” For so many, they are the only doorway into cultural life.
Did you know, during the inaugural SICK AF exhibition, online visitation by disabled and remote audiences equaled in-person attendance.
Audiences are not lost to online viewing – they are missing audiences.
What We Do
Ready-made Models
Exhibition openings and walk-throughs, interactive catalogues, Art Museum in a Box, hybrid events
Custom Virtual Tours
We create virtual tours of exhibitions catered to identified access needs
Event Participation
We bring our audiences with us – audiences you are currently missing
Collaboration
We work with venues and festivals, providing our own access teams if needed
Partnerships
We can work together, with you, to support the access needs of our community
Consultancy
Supporting organisations to embed meaningful digital access into their programs
Our Approach
SICK AF creates digital-first experiences with, by, and for disabled and housebound people. Online exhibitions, openings, and tours are a strategic pillar of our work, not an afterthought.
We have the technology and team already in place, with lo-fi, low energy options and high tech solutions.
We are ready to expand our networks through partnerships, volunteers, and carers.
An Invitation
If you don’t yet have a platform for digital access, we can work with you!
We have ready made models tailored to exhibitions and events – or bring our own audiences and programs into your venue.
By working with us, you can:
> Offer equitable access
> Reach disabled, chronically ill and injured, immunocompromised, energy-limited, neurologically impacted, neurodivergent, carer, and remote audiences
> Current issue and future-proof programming against disruptions – from public health crises, including viral exposure, to climate events
> Lead the sector in inclusive, innovative practice
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Images: SICK AF exhibition, Shark Bay, ART ON THE MOVE tour, credit Kristina Alderson; Don’t Ignore the Periphery opening, credit John Wells Photography