Living in a Topsy Turvey world

NINE artists from Arthur Creative’s local photography workshops are showcasing their shots within a new exhibition at the outdoor Unicorn Lane gallery.

Topsy Turvey is part of the Ballarat International Foto Biennale, and the project has been led by April Welfare, the coordinator of Arthur Creative Studios.

The studios are a division of Melba Support Services, which aim to empower people with a disability to explore their creativity and express themselves.

“We’ve called it Topsy Turvey because of the times we’re living in. It fits a wide criteria, while giving everyone a chance to reflect on how they’re feeling,” Ms Welfare said.

“We’re here to give artists an opportunity to have a space to work, have fun, to give them opportunities to be part of different arts and culture activities in the region, and help them achieve their creative goals if they want to go down an artistic pathway.”

The photographers featured include Jayne Fuller, Millicent Ross, Jenna Rathgeber, Sarah Williams, Alisha-Louise Freestone, James Wade, Dylan Millner, Jack Stacey and Fran Wellard, who have been inspired by nature walks and still life shoots along the way.

Stacey said working on the exhibition has given him a “strong sense of collaboration and community.”

“I felt proud and honoured to contribute to a wide variety of artistic expression,” he said.

“My photographs intend to challenge the viewer’s interpretation of reality metaphors, and surrealism by creating environments and sensations that seem strange, but are not impossible.”

Wellard enjoyed contributing to the 2021 BIFB, and was happy to share her photography with family and friends in a different way, while Freeman was grateful to have furthered her creative skills.

“I did it all by myself and am very happy that I’ve learned to edit and process my own work,” she said.

Wade was also proud to be part of the show, and his “adorable” class.

“It’s so fantastic that they’ve got this opportunity in the Biennale. It’s such a big confidence boost and has given our artists direction to work towards this,” Ms Welfare said.

“It’s all about self-worth, building confidence, and it’s so rewarding. Everyone enjoys the process.”

Arthur Creative’s photography workshops are run on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with clients coming along once a week. They have produced an exhibition for the BIFB at least three times.