Civic Disability Services kicked off International Day of People with Disability celebrations in style with an Art Exhibition opening at Hazelhurst Arts Centre last weekend.
Titled the ‘Art of Ability’,100 artists, guests and VIPs gathered last Saturday to view artworks and celebrate the creative talents of individuals with all levels of ability.
Works on display were the collaborative effort of Civic clients and staff with pieces produced in Community Hubs, Supported Accommodation, Civic Industries and through individual support.
NSW Attorney General, Mr Mark Speakman and member for Heathcote, Mr Lee Evans, joined in the festivities.
Chairman, Luke Streater told guests, “At Civic we recognise that everyone is unique and are pleased to offer custom design solutions - giving every opportunity for individuals to live the lives they want, these practicesembedded in our vision of - Human Potential, Realised.
“Art therapy is a wonderful outlet for many individuals, the process itself improving physical, mental and emotional well-being. Art has also been used as a way of dealing with conflict or change, providing the opportunity for many individuals to express their emotions.”
Civic’s Sutherland Community Hub regularly runs art therapy classes.
One of the artworks, called ‘Australian Natives’ was a tribute to renown Australian artist Margaret Preston. roduced over several months, Civic clients worked on individual squares which later came together to produce the colourful piece.
“For many individual’s art is more than a hobby, it provides a voice. It stimulates senses and offers a way to communicate when words sometimes fail,” Mr Streater said.
To find out more about Civic visit www.civic.org.au.