Accessible Interview Template: Working with Disabled and Neurodiverse Artists and Journalists

​Designed with accessibility, flexibility, and comfort in mind. We created a template that supports interviews where both the artist and interviewer are disabled or neurodiverse individuals. It balances structure to reduce stress and support focus with flexibility to ensure everyone can communicate and express themselves in their own way.

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)

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Both parties can share preferences ahead of time: captions, transcripts, breaks, slower pace, use of chat instead of voice, step-free space, sensory-friendly environment, etc.

Share interview questions beforehand to prevent surprises. Decide on interview length and agree on breaks. Clarify what will happen with the interview, such as an article, zine, clip, or social post. Allow the option to skip or rephrase any questions without explanation.

When starting the interview, clearly outline that your priority is the interviewee’s comfort and their preferences. Begin by introducing yourself and asking the artist for their name, pronouns, and preferred introduction. Ask about the artist's access needs and communication preferences before you proceed. Also, share your own needs to create a safe and balanced environment for both parties.

Here are some example questions:

Warm-up starter questions:

• “What’s something you’re enjoying right now (music, daily life, a comfort thing)?”
• “Do you have a routine or tool that helps you feel comfortable in creative spaces?”

  
Creative and identity questions:

• “How would you describe your artistry/work in your own words?”
• “What inspires you most right now?”
• “Do you use any access-friendly tools, routines, or setups in your creative process?”

Industry and Accessibility 

• What barriers have you faced in creative spaces, and what helped you overcome them?”
• “What accessibility practices have made things easier for you?”
• “If you could change one thing about the music/arts industry, what would it be?”

 
Future and Support

• “What projects are you working on now?”
• “How can people support your work (buying, streaming, following, funding)?”
• “What are your hopes or dreams for the future?”

Closing questions

• “Is there anything we didn’t cover that you’d like to share?”
• “Where can people find your work online?”
• Thank each other and confirm next steps (editing, publishing, sharing).​

Supports for both artist and interviewer:

• Scripts & Notes: Both can use outlines to reduce pressure.
• Choice-Based Questions: Offer multiple-choice, rating, or “pick one” to avoid open-ended stress.
• Recording & Transcripts: Record (with consent) so neither has to take perfect notes.
• Chunking: Break into short sessions instead of one long one.
• Processing Time: Silence is okay. Allow time to think, write, or circle back later.
• Aftercare: Send the transcript or draft to the artist for approval. Let the interviewer take time before editing or publishing.