She is running a free workshop next week that calls time on inaccessible arts.
The aim of the workshop is to reduce barriers for people with a disability when accessing art spaces in Ōtepoti Dunedin.
Ms Woods will encourage participants to play the "why not?" accessibility game which emerged when she refereed a game of nude touch rugby.
"I injected my concept of saying ‘why not?’ into that game because a lot of non-disabled people are afraid of disabled people and it is that fear that stops us moving towards them or them towards us.
"Saying ‘why not?’ is a quick way of making a response that ignores the fear ... you just say ‘why not?’ and you will do it."
Reducing barriers for disabled people when trying to access the arts could include more accessible ticketing and information about events coming up.
It was also about artists being mindful about how their creations could be enjoyed by people with disabilities.
"A performing arts space may put on a play that may not be accessible for a blind person because there may be very little verbal information.
"An audio description would be something that the space could offer to fill in the gaps when there are non-verbal scenes."
Ms Woods hoped disabled artists would be able to enjoy a wider range of experiences.
"Part of being an artist is also being an audience member, so I guess the pathway to becoming a disabled artist is being a disabled audience member."
Ms Woods said the workshop idea emerged when Dunedin Fringe Arts Trust co-directors Kate Schrader and Ruth Harvey contacted her regarding Te Whare o Rukutia community curators initiative.
"It is about engaging marginalised communities with the arts and recognising that there are barriers that stop disabled people from engaging with the arts."
Accessibility workshop
Julie Woods supported by access champion Paula Waby
Saturday, June 24
2pm to 3.30pm.
Te Whare o Rukutia
20 Princes St
Ōtepoti Dunedin
To book email paula.waby4@gmail.com or phone (03) 477-3350
