Future agendas for disability focused arts and humanities research

The arts and humanities have historically made a significant contribution to disability studies. This paper seeks to build on this history by exploring what researchers from these disciplines consider to be priority future research agendas. Following a review of the relevant forward focused literature, a qualitative investigation was undertaken with participants who are currently involved in disability inclusive arts and humanities research. The analysis reveals that researchers have optimism with regards to the potential of their disciplines to explore themes relating to disability inclusion, but to achieve this potential, action must be taken to address both thematic and process related concerns. Both researchers and funders must ensure that any research on disability is accessible, meaningfully inclusive, and addresses existing power imbalances. Further critical methodological approaches are needed to understand of the contribution, impact, and future potential of the arts and humanities to explore disability studies.