About Us
Studio ARTES provides support to adults with a disability through programs in creative arts and life skills.
A true community within a community, Studio ARTES is a place where adults with a disability can be supported to set goals, and reach beyond those targets. A place where our members can learn to read, write, and cook, as well as create and develop artistic practices in visual and performing arts. We offer members and families help to navigate a changing context of funding and support, keeping the Studio ARTES values of inclusion, equity, and respect engrained in a culture of acceptance and endless possibilities.
Studio ARTES was established in 2000, and is based in Sydney Australia. We currently provide services to over 250 people with a disability all over NSW. We provide services to adults over the age of 18, living with mild to moderate intellectual disability, autism spectrum disorders, mild to moderate physical disabilities, down syndrome, amongst others. We offer group and 1on1 support in centre based programs, group events, and community access from our studios in Hornsby and Sydenham.
Visit our Program page to find out more about our creative programs and extension opportunities within Visual Arts, Performing Arts, and Life Skills.
Our sister company, Studio A, is a supported art studio for artists with an intellectual disability who have a career pathway in visual arts.
Studio ARTES is a registered NDIS provider.
Our Board
Andrew Reeves
Andrew Reeves is a Partner with KPMG Australia, and joined the Board of Studio ARTES in 2017. He was elected Chair in 2019.
Andrew’s areas of expertise are finance and governance, and has a strong interest in supporting his local community.
Simon Bryan
With a background in education, Simon moved from the classroom to managing the IT infrastructure and systems at The McDonald College. He has served on a number of Syllabus Committees for the NSW Board of Studies and is an active member of Rotary.
Dick Bryan
Dick Bryan joined the Board of Studio ARTES in 2016. He has been involved with Studio ARTES as a parent for over a decade and was an Emeritus Professor of Political Economy at the University of Sydney. Dick is a strong advocate for social justice and equality.
Wendy Escott OAM
Founder and Board Member, Wendy became a special education teacher in 1982. In 2000, along with Sue Byatt, Wendy founded Studio ARTES. In 2001 Wendy was awarded an OAM for her work with both adults and children with disability, and also received a Centennial Medal.
Douglas Spencer OAM
Doug joined the Board in 2003 and held the position of Chair of the Board of Studio ARTES from 2009 to 2019. Doug was awarded an OAM and a Premier of New South Wales Community Service Award in appreciation and recognition for the ongoing support to various community groups.
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Bottom (L-R): Wendy Escott OAM, Douglas Spencer OAM
