Assistive technology for adaptive art includes special equipment or tools that help people with different abilities express themselves creatively. For example, someone with trouble holding a paintbrush might use a special handle that’s easier to grip, or someone with vision problems might use a computer program that turns shapes and colors into sounds. This technology is important because it allows everyone, no matter their abilities, to make and enjoy art.
Many artists are creative with their adaptive tools. Some use special grips to hold their paintbrushes; others attach a brush to a hat and paint by moving their head! Materials and tools can be used differently for all artists to create.
What kinds of adaptive art tools are there?
- Grips for paintbrushes, drawing and coloring tools
- Daubers and rollers for paint
- Finger paints
- No-spill paint containers
- Dot markers or paints
- Jumbo or specialty-shaped crayons
- Modified easels
- Stamps and textured rollers
- Wheelchair accessible potter’s wheels
- Adapted scissors and other tools
- Tracers
Other Tips
- Stabilizers or tremor cancellation devices can help with fine motor tasks.
- Magnification can assist with detailed work such as sewing and needlecraft.
- Tools can be attached to different areas of the body (like using a hat or head pointer).
- Tools can be attached to wheelchairs, walkers, and other mobility aids to create larger works. Artists can also create using gross motor movements!