HOTA (Home of the Arts) is the Gold Coast’s go-to destination for all things arts, creativity and entertainment. This expansive precinct right behind Surfers Paradise is the cultural heart of the city and hosts everything from cabaret, comedy, music, film and theatre to festivals, markets, cultural performances and world exclusive exhibitions at the incredible art gallery.
HOTA is a place for the people - inclusive, inspiring and in true Gold Coast style, you’re welcome to visit in board shorts and thongs if that’s your vibe. There's a huge variety of things to do here - browse the art and exhibitions in the world class gallery, enjoy a drink at rooftop bar, The Exhibitionist, catch a movie or theatre production, attend the Sunday morning markets or pack a picnic and explore the shady parklands surrounding Evandale Lake.
HOTA has a commitment to be a true home of the arts for all by removing barriers, being deeply connected to the community and supporting all people to create, experience and engage in arts and culture. They have put many measures in place to make it accessible for people with disabilities - here are some of the ways in which HOTA makes this incredible creative space inclusive.
Neuro Diverse Visitors
- On the first Saturday of every month between 9 - 10am it’s Quiet Hour in HOTA Gallery. Lower sound and light levels are used where possible (hand dryers, PA system etc) ensuring a relaxed and calm environment for anyone who prefers a quieter visitor experience.
- For some events and theatre productions a ‘relaxed performance’ is available - one that has been modified slightly to consider the needs and preferences of people with disability and their companions. A relaxed performance may have lower sound levels and less special effects plus a designated ‘chill out’ zone in the foyer.
- Pre-visit information is available in the form of a downloadable social story that details the experience of visiting HOTA.
Visitors With a Visual Impairment
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HOTA Gallery provides all artwork labels in large print format (ask a member of staff).
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Audio-described tours are provided upon request for small groups and individuals. (Contact gallery ahead of time.)
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Films listed as [CC] at HOTA Cinema provide listening assisted headsets so visitors can listen to audi-described movies with a spoken commentary and enjoy all the parts of a movie, including visual jokes, visual scenes, settings and body language.
Visitors With a Hearing Impairment
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Auslan 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.
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Some exhibitions and programs are Auslan interpreted. Take part in this opportunity for an inclusive discussion of the artworks on display, with the support of an accredited Auslan interpreter and HOTA Gallery Artist Educator.
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Listening assistive headsets are available at HOTA Cinema. The audio is delivered through a personal headset with individual left and right volume controls. Audio enhancement is available on all films, every session at HOTA Cinema.
Visitors With a Mobility Impairment
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At the HOTA Outdoor Stage, there are designated spots for wheelchair users and their companions on the level paved walkway, which provides good views of the stage.
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There are accessible parking spaces close to the front of HOTA Gallery and a designated pick up/ set down area in front of the main entrance.
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The Gallery has an accessible entrance and lifts inside that can accommodate wheelchairs.
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The Gallery has accessible toilets on the lower ground floor, Level 3 and Level 5 and Changing Places facilities.
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For wheelchair users, a ramp provides access from the street level to the open air terrace and HOTA Cafe, and a lift that will take you to the main foyer to access the theatre and cinema.
Find our more about accessible accommodation and experiences on the Gold Coast.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY
Destination Gold Coast acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we are situated, the Kombumerri families of the Yugambeh Language Region.
We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging, and recognise their continuing connections to the lands, waters and their extended communities throughout Southeast Queensland.