Zot Artz

About

Zot Artz was founded in 1990 by artist and engineer Dwayne Szot, with initial funding from the National Endowment for the Arts. Szot's experience growing up alongside foster siblings with cerebral palsy inspired him to design entirely new art-making activities — not adaptations of mainstream tools — that are genuinely accessible and enjoyable for people with disabilities.

What It Does

Zot Artz manufactures a range of adaptive art tools including painting wheelchairs (which transform the wheelchair itself into a large paintbrush), Pogo Paint Poles, handheld paint rollers, and sponge stencil sets. These tools allow users to create artwork indoors or outdoors at scales both large and small. The organisation also facilitates workshops and provides YouTube demonstration videos to support educators and programme coordinators.

Who It Helps

Children and adults with physical disabilities, cerebral palsy, autism, muscular dystrophy, spina bifida, sensory impairments, learning disabilities, and developmental disabilities — from preschool age through to seniors — as well as educators and therapists running adaptive art programmes.