“To be an iconic Gold Coast destination where art, entertainment, culture and lifestyle meet” is the mission statement on the HOTA website. I’d add one more item to that list and that’s accessibility and inclusion for all, because HOTA is doing this exceptionally well. HOTA – Home of the Arts is a wonderful attraction which should be added to your accessible Gold Coast itinerary.
HOTA – Home of the Arts – accessible Gold Coast
We visited HOTA on a Sunday when it was bustling with locals heading to the HOTA Farmer & Artisan Markets. We did a quick lap around the market and it made me wish I was a local so I could stock up on farm fresh produce. Returning to Sydney by plane did not deter me from buying a couple of items. The fresh aroma of the passionfruit drew me to the stall and all sensible thoughts about baggage weight limits was cast to one side. I stocked up on two bags of gorgeously heavy passionfruit. And despite Hubby’s groans, I couldn’t go past the farm fresh avocados. After consuming them on our return home I can report it was worth it. The passionfruit was divine.
After getting distracted with the market we headed into the gallery in HOTA, the actual reason for our visit. We enjoyed wandering around the various levels and checking out the art. I spotted a particularly cool feature which I think all art galleries should adopt.
While there is the usual explanation of the artworks, there’s also a simpler version for young children or those who prefer an abridged explanation. Each one included a thought provoking question to engage the visitor.
While the arts and entertainment is probably the main reason for a visit to HOTA, the views are pretty spectacular too.
While we were visiting, Bricktionary – the interactive Lego Brick Exhibition was on at HOTA (this exhibition finishes 7 August 2022). What a fun and educational exhibition. If you’ve ever wanted to know how the Lego Masters create different scenes this exhibition gives you the abc of Lego creation. It’s a fabulous insight and also wonderful for Lego Master wannabes to learn how to make their Lego scenes more engaging.
Our Mr Bean fan was particularly thrilled to see one of his favourite characters immortalised in Lego. Mr Bean’s Mini even had a lock on the door. It’s all about the detail with the Lego exhibitions.
Entry to the galleries of HOTA is free but exhibitions like the Lego one do attract a fee. Companion card is accepted.
Accessibility at HOTA – Home of the Arts
HOTA offers an incredible range of services to ensure inclusion and access for all abilities. Here’s some of the facilities offered.
Sunroom – art program
On the first Wednesday each month there is a disability-led art program offered at HOTA for people aged 18-35. No art making experience is needed, just a willingness to participate and an imagination. You can find out more on the HOTA website.
Social story
A social story can assist some people in preparation for a visit. HOTA provides a social story which can be downloaded here.
Quiet hour
On the first Saturday of every month between 9 – 10am a Quiet Hour is offered in HOTA Gallery. The Quiet Hour is provided to ensure a relaxed and calm environment for anyone who prefers a quieter visitor experience.
Hearing assistance
Assistive listening carrier devices (FM system) are available in the gallery. The HOTA Gallery foyer, Children’s Gallery and Studio spaces are all fitted with an Audio Frequency Induction Loop system.
Some Auslan interpreted performances are available at HOTA.
Visually impaired visitors
HOTA Gallery provides all artwork labels in large print format, please ask a member of staff.
Audio-described tours are provided upon request for small groups and individuals. To book please contact [email protected] or call (07) 5588 4000.
HOTA Cinema provides listening assisted headsets so you can listen to audio described movies you might have difficulty seeing with a spoken commentary and enjoy all the parts of a movie, including visual jokes, visual scenes, settings and body language. Films listed as [CC] carry this technology.
Relaxed performances
Relaxed performances are offered at some events at HOTA.
Accessible parking
Accessible parking is available in an open air car park in front of HOTA Central.
Entry to HOTA is via a large accessible push button which activates the door. No heavy doors to manage at HOTA.
Spacious galleries make circulation and distancing easy.
Accessible bathroom facilities
Unisex stand-alone accessible bathrooms are available throughout HOTA.
A Changing Places bathroom is located on the lower level of HOTA and offers an adult-size change table, hoist and privacy screen.
You can check out the full list of accessibility services and facilities on the HOTA website.
Hi Julie, Braeden, and fam,
We just wanted to say thank you so much for visiting and for your very detailed review. We enjoyed hearing about your visit, and were glad to hear you had a good and stress-free time.
Kindest,
HOTA, Home of the Arts
PS
Did you spot Teddy in the back of Mr Bean’s mini?