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Shape Arts and Artsadmin will deliver the third Unlimited programme until 2020.

Unlimited is an arts commissioning programme that aims to embed work by disabled artists within the UK and international cultural sectors, reach new audiences and shift perceptions of disabled people. It was initially created as part of the Cultural Olympiad 2012.

It is vital that no deaf or disabled artist experiences a barrier to realising their ambitions

At the heart of Unlimited is a commitment to presenting the best work. Previous works commissioned and developed by Unlimited include Touretteshero’s ‘Backstage in Biscuit Land’,Cameron Morgan’s ‘TV Classics Part 1’, Sheila Hill’s ‘Him’ and Aaron Williamson’s ‘Demonstrating the World’ (pictured).

Unlimited III

The Arts Council has awarded £1.8m for the Unlimited III programme to be delivered by two national-reaching organisations, Shape Arts and Artsadmin.

It will build on the success of the two previous Unlimited programmes, which took place between 2009 and 2016.

Joyce Wilson, London Area Director, Arts Council England, said: “It is vital that no deaf or disabled artist experiences a barrier to realising their ambitions, either socially, physically or economically. Unlimited demonstrates the Arts Council’s commitment to this belief and to the goals of our Creative Case.

“We are excited to be working with Shape Arts and Artsadmin, who will bring their expertise to build on the success of the work to date and continue the positive profile of the Unlimited brand. This year, there will be an enhanced focus on talent development and, with our support, international partnerships, building on the excellent existing work with the Southbank Centre and Tramway festivals to make new connections across the globe.”

Find out how you can apply for Unlimited III here. 

In 2014, we committed our organisation and fundees to a fundamental shift in our approach to diversity, with the Creative Case for Diversity. Find out how we are delivering on our goals.

The organisations

Shape Arts is a disability-led arts organisation working to improve access to culture for disabled people. It develops opportunities for disabled artists, helps cultural institutions to be more open to disabled people, and runs participatory arts and development programmes.

Artsadmin enables artists to create without boundaries, producing bold interdisciplinary work to connect with local, national and international audiences. At Toynbee Studios in East London, Artsadmin has established a centre for the creation and presentation of new work. Its advisory service supports with free advice and opportunities.

Shape and Artsadmin received funding in early 2016 from the Arts Council’s Ambitions for Excellence award for international development of the programme, extending Unlimited’s reach around the world. Unlimited Impact, funded by Spirit of 2012, focuses on supporting young people, geographic reach and ensuring legacy.

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