Art is a reflection of society, a mirror that shows us who we are, and who we can be. When disabled artists are given a platform to showcase their work, it offers the world a glimpse into experiences, emotions, and perspectives that are often underrepresented.
Exhibitions are more than just a display of skill; they’re a testament to the resilience, creativity, and humanity of people with disabilities.
On Saturday the 3rd of August, we hosted the IDSS Colour My World Exhibition opening night at The Book Boutique in Bundaberg. Sponsored by the Bundaberg Regional Council Micro Grants, the exhibition was all about giving our artists a chance to showcase their talents proudly.
With the help of their art teacher and mentor Alison, they created pieces that they felt most represented them and their love of art.
It was a night to remember, with incredible art, artists, local wine, music and even a bit of impromptu karaoke.
But more importantly, it meant the world to our artists that people came to support and celebrate them and their ability.
Our artists all started out by joining our Bundaberg Art Program, which has since helped improve their social connectivity and helped them develop a new level of confidence and success.
It’s helped improved their wellbeing by reducing anxiety and feelings of loneliness and instead given them a sense of belonging.
“Our participants have created some amazing art - it's been an absolute pleasure to assist each of them on their journey and they should all be so very proud of what they have achieved. We are all dealing with our own challenges, and I hope that through our Art and Craft groups we can offer the support, understanding and inspiration to grow and build a belief and confidence in themselves. I see our participants learning new skills, building belief in their abilities while enjoying a social and safe place to create. I feel very blessed to have had some small part in the journey of each of our artists. I am so very proud of each and every one.” - Alison, IDSS Groups Facilitator/Art Teacher
These incredible artists got to proudly exhibit the pieces that have come from these programs. And here’s what a few of our disabled artists have to say:
“My name is Jorja and I’ve always loved creating art, whether it be paint, drawing, crochet, looming, collaging or sculpting. I take inspiration from 2000 pop music, KPop, SanRio, Teddy Bears, Stories & Books. My favourite colour is pink and I hope my Art brings people a feeling of happiness.”
-Jorja Anderson
“I loved art from a very early age. The firs thing I held as a baby was a pencil! My favourite medium is water-based acrylic, however, I have started experimenting with acrylic pens and markers to add an extra layer to my art. I love using fine lines to create detail. I am inspired and empowered by the creativity and beauty around me – I find my creativity comes naturally. I love coming to IDSS Art Group to be with other artists, I feel I am where I belong. My favourite piece is “The Story of Colour”, the story of how the Brolga got its colours.”
-Kane Bacon
“I started my creative journey at school, drawing and sketching. My favourite style art is line and wash drawing which I have been creating for over 10 years. I get a lot of my inspiration from other artists on YouTube which gives the opportunity to learn and try different techniques. I enjoy coming to IDSS Art Group to socialise and see what other people in the group are creating, sharing creative ideas. I am an original member of the Art Group that started 2 years ago. My favourite piece is “Lion of Colour”.
-Troy Weston
“My interest in art is new, joining the IDSS Art Group in May this year. I enjoy getting out of the house, trying new things and being creative. I have also started doing some art at home.
I love to crochet while watching Vietnamese and Australian shows (one of my favourites is Home and Away). I love to use watercolour – I love the bright vibrant colours I can use in my art.”
-Huong Trang
“I have always loved art, since I was very young. I enjoy the variety of mediums I can use and have tried lots of different techniques. I have challenged myself in our Art Group to try acrylic paint on canvas, oil pastels and watercolour. My next challenge will be to work with oil paints. I love coming to IDSS Art for relaxation, socialising, being creative and trying new things. I love learning and love seeing my progress of what I can achieve. I want to challenge myself to learn more about sketching, shading and learning new techniques.”
-Paul Turner
“As a Mum of 3 girls, I enjoy coming to the IDSS Art Group to socialise, get out of the house and challenge myself to try new things. When I left school, I studied visual arts for a year with my interest focusing on photography. When my vision became impaired and photography became more difficult, I looked for other forms of creativity. Recently I have had time to become more creative and I joined the Art Group as my interest in creating art grew.
I am challenging myself to try new things and I am starting to experiment and enjoy working with watercolours. I have also worked with oil pastels for the first time, providing me with a new challenge and have loved using them.”
-Sue Ellen Manley
“My interest in art started at school, developing as a cartoonist. I had a break from creativity as I was busy working, but when I returned from Brisbane and restarted creating with pencil and charcoal, loving the creativity. I love coming to the IDSS Art Group to challenge myself, learn new techniques and enjoying the socialisation the group provides. I have enjoyed learning and experimenting with watercolour and oil pastels.”
-Michael Dilger
A special thanks goes out to Danielle and the Book Boutique for making this opportunity possible for our artists, giving them a safe space to proudly present their work. And a big thankyou to the Bundaberg Council for the Micro Grants for the purchase all of our frames and canvases so that we could display our artwork so professionally.
Exhibitions like this remind us that creativity knows no bounds and that the art world is richer when it embraces diversity in all its forms. As society continues to evolve, it’s essential that we create and support spaces where disabled artists can share their voices, tell their stories, and contribute to the cultural landscape.
If you’re looking for a safe space to express yourself, join our Art Program. Check out times here
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