Evaluating the Fine Arts Program at the Center for Excellence in Disabilities

Abstract

Art programs for people with disabilities may encourage creativity, promote engagement, emphasize inclusion, and extend access and opportunities for community involvement. This mixed methods study utilized quantitative and qualitative data, repeated measures, action research, and stakeholder collaboration to develop and implement an evaluation tool that would enable a fine arts program to become a self-improving system. Participants viewed the program favorably and reported improved artistic and professional skills, social integration, self-esteem, and sense of purpose. The evaluation model described can be adapted to a variety of art therapy and arts-related programs to assess the efficacy of interventions or program features.