This is an exhibition of works carefully crafted by participants of the Gallery’s Outreach Workshops. The program, which is proudly supported by the IMB Bank through their Community Foundation, works with the Crescent School, Warrigal Care Goulburn and PGU Kenmore and has delivered 54 workshops since July 2017.

The program is designed to improve accessibility to the Gallery and its program by those in the community who would have difficulty attending the Gallery in person. The exhibition consists of over 20 works created by participants.

The display signifies the variety of projects undertaken by workshop participants carefully designed by artist facilitator Susan Welsh Wecker to provide both art making as therapy and skill development opportunities.

The ‘helping hands’ group collage and paper mache face masks projects encouraged our artists to paint their feelings drawing upon past memories for a shared experience. Creating works as self-expression delivers a sense of pride and achievement as well as therapeutic outcomes.

New art materials and techniques were introduced through the paper fans, glass tile mosaics and sand paper pastel drawings. These projects challenge traditional perceptions of art and open up new possibilities for art practice.

Vincent Van Gogh’s ‘The Starry Night’ and ‘Sunflowers’ were considered and discussed before responded to in painting and drawing form. Studying the greats builds knowledge and interest in art history, builds confidence and ability in interpretation and response as well as allowing participants to expand upon their art practice by copying technique.

The Gallery is committed to this outreach program and looks forward to the evolution of the program and to future outcomes. Thanks must go to IMB Bank for supporting the program.