October 2002

Bright reaction to exhibition

Brisk sales have marked the annual Bright Reactions arts exhibition showcasing the work of artists with an intellectual disability.

Most of the artwork on display—including paintings, drawings and ceramic pieces—was produced by artists from Kew Residential Services.

The well-attended exhibition was held at the Box Hill Community Arts Centre in September. Centre manager Mark Fawcett said that the exhibition had drawn admiring and almost envious comments from a group of fellow artists, based at the centre, who wandered through the exhibition.

‘They were super impressed by the freedom with which these artists approached their work,’ Mr Fawcett said.

‘Their eye for colour is so instinctive and they are not hemmed in by the notion of churning out work for a market or by pre-conceived notions of structure and form.’

As many of the artists are non-verbal, their striking use of colour and vibrant imagery gives them a voice to express their creativity and show their considerable talents.

Mr Fawcett said a highlight had been the delight of the artists seeing their work displayed.

‘They just glowed with pleasure... it was very special to see them bursting with pride as they went through the exhibition with their families and carers.’

The visitors’ book also recorded the enthusiastic reaction of those that attended the exhibition, hosted by Kew Day programs in conjunction with Burke and Beyond, Network Q, Latrobe Life Skills, NADRASCA, Arts Education NMIT, Noble Park SDS and Alkira.

‘Bright, refreshing and cheery’ was the verdict of one impressed visitor.

Opening the exhibition, presenter of the 3LO Arts Show Chris Keogh described the atmosphere as relaxed and inclusive.