ARTISTS from the Wauchope region are bringing their work, their stories and one very large fly to Gloucester Gallery next month.
Threads of Connection, an exhibition by the Wauchope Regional Arts Project (WRAP), will feature work by emerging artists with disability alongside that of their professional artist mentors.
WRAP coordinator Marita Dahlhausen said the project began in 2021 after the Port Macquarie Hastings area identified a lack of visibility and opportunity for artists with disability.
Through visual and performing arts workshops, participants develop skills and connections that can lead to exhibitions, performances and other opportunities.
Ms Dahlhausen said WRAP’s approach was “more tailored to individuals, person-centred, participant-led and flexible to meet individual needs”.
“Linking with professional artists builds confidence, skills, knowledge and connections, promoting increased self-esteem and personal growth,” Ms Dahlhausen said.
Those opportunities have included songwriting and recording, artist residencies, community murals and participation in the Hastings Arts Trail.
The Gloucester exhibition will span painting, photography, ceramics, textiles, weaving and recycled art. Hanging from the ceiling will be Louie the Fly, a large prop made from bamboo, paper and muslin for a Port Macquarie ArtWalk performance.
“The many varied works reflect important issues in the world today, stories and interests of participants and experimentation in a range of styles and mediums,” Ms Dahlhausen said.
She hopes the exhibition will give Gloucester audiences a chance to discover the work of artists from a neighbouring community.
“Inclusive arts can open the dialogue between the broader community and artists with disability,” she said.
Visitors will also have the chance to make art together at Take the Chalk for a Walk, a free community activity from 10 am to noon on Saturday,10 October, ahead of the exhibition opening. The idea was first tried as a joint artwork during the Hastings Arts Trail in Wauchope.
“We would like to invite the Gloucester community to come along, meet the artists and enjoy making art together,” Ms Dahlhausen said.
Threads of Connection runs at Gloucester Gallery from 8 October to 1 November. Shaun Mandala will perform at the opening on Saturday 10 October from 12.30 pm.
By Sonja DUNCAN
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