KU-RING-GAI Council has provided artists with a disability the opportunity to display their work as part of the Exploration Art Exhibition. The exhibition is on display at St Ives Shopping Village until 21st January 2022.
“For people with a disability, recognition of their talents and skills in a meaningful way, such as an exhibition, is a good way for them to be seen, heard, and recognised as an artist in their own right. This boosts self-confidence and their own personal identity,” says Heidi Ferguson, Arts Coordinator at Blue Apple Art Studios.
The 2020 National Arts Participation Survey found that respondents with disability were more than twice as likely to participate in community arts (29%, compared to 14%) than those without a disability. The survey also found that respondents with a disability are more likely to attend arts events to express themselves and improve their well-being than those without a disability.
“Art has many benefits for everyone in the community,” says Ferguson. “It is accessible to everyone, regardless of ability, and it is a great way to express yourself without the use of words. For many of our students, the joy of art is in the process, rather than the outcome. Using colour, textures and different techniques is a great way to convey emotions and tell a story without having to articulate in words.”
The art exhibition, which was officially launched on Friday 3rd December, is a result of Ku-ring-gai Council’s Disability and Inclusion Action Plan, which seeks to include people with a disability in local activities and events.
“They are all very excited to be a part of the Exploration Exhibition. Seeing their artwork framed and accessible for people to view is always a thrill for the artists, their families and teachers,” Ferguson says.
The Exploration Exhibition has attracted 43 entries. It is a collaboration between Ku-ring-gai Council and Sunnyfield Disability Services, Inala, Studio Artes, St Lucy’s School Wahroonga, Blue Apple Art, Unisson Disability Services, St Ives Shopping Village and ACL Disability Services.
The exhibition is available to view online until 22nd January 2022.