Accessible Interview Template: Working with Disabled and Neurodiverse Artists

Designed with inclusivity, flexibility, and comfort in mind. We created a template for interviewing Neurodiverse and disabled artists. Balancing structure, to reduce anxiety, and flexibility, to let artists express themselves in their own way

Starting with format options, letting the artist choose what is most comfortable for them.

• Starting with format options, decide on the best option for both interviewer and artist.
• Written Q&A (email / shared doc, allows flexible response times)
• Pre-recorded (voice notes or video sent in advance)
• Live (video call, phone, or in-person with breaks)
• Hybrid (start written, follow up live if needed)

Offer accommodations: breaks, time extensions, advance access to questions, ability to skip/reword any questions, optional support person present.

To ensure everyone feels comfortable, both parties are encouraged to share their preferences in advance, including captions, transcripts, breaks, a slower pace, using chat instead of voice, accessible spaces, and sensory-friendly environments. Sharing interview questions beforehand helps avoid surprises. Agree on the interview length and any breaks that may be needed. Also, discuss what will happen with the interview after, whether that's an article, zine, clip, or social post. Remember, it's always okay to skip or rephrase questions without needing to explain why.

​When starting the interview, let the interviewee know that their comfort and preferences are your priority. Take a moment to introduce yourself, and then gently ask the artist for their name, pronouns, and preferred introduction. Inquire about the artist's accessibility needs and communication preferences before proceeding. Consider sharing your own needs as well, so that you can create a welcoming and balanced environment together.

When interviewing an artist, start with introductions and help them feel at ease. Use these starter questions:

Introduce Yourself and the Artist:

•  "Can you tell us your name, pronouns, and how you’d like to be introduced?"

Discuss Accessibility:

•  "Do you wish to share anything about your access needs before we begin?" 

Understand Communication Preferences: 

• "Is there a communication style you prefer, such as short or long answers, visuals, notes, etc.?"

These steps help create a respectful and supportive environment.

Here are some more example questions:

Warm up questions 

• What’s something bringing you joy right now (music, art, daily life)?
• Do you have a routine, ritual, or tool that helps you get into a creative mindset?

Creative identity

• How would you describe your artistry in your own words?
• What inspires your work (themes, people, places, experiences)?
• Do you have access-friendly ways of creating (adaptive instruments, software, sensory-friendly environments)?

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Industry and accessibility

• Have you faced barriers as a disabled/neurodiverse artist in music spaces?
• What accessibility practices have made performing, recording, or attending events easier for you?
• What changes would you like to see in the industry for disabled artists and fans?​

Projects and future

• Can you share a project you’re working on right now that excites you?
• How can people support your work (streaming, buying, following, Patreon, etc.)?
• Do you have any collaborations, tours, or future dreams you’d like to highlight

Reflections and Closing

• If you could give advice to emerging disabled or neurodiverse artists, what would it be?
• Is there anything we didn’t ask that you’d like to share?
• Where can people find you online (links, socials)?​​

Accessibility-friendly tips for interviewers

• Send questions in advance.
• Offer to adapt wording.
• Allow typed notes during live conversation.
• Avoid jargon, sarcasm, or over-complicated phrasing.
• Provide transcripts/captions afterward.
• Respect silence/processing time.​