New art program to draw stroke of inclusion

AN OPPORTUNITY for NDIS participants to express their creativity has been developed thanks to a new and inclusive art program in Drysdale.

Former support worker and founder of new art program Nouri Studios, Madelein Mahoney, came up with the idea for a fun and creative art program that would allow people living with a disability to thrive in a productive environment right here on the Bellarine.

“A former client of mine who had bipolar was curious about joining an art class that also catered to her condition, but after searching high and low for her I couldn’t find anything,” Ms Mahoney said.

“That’s when I was inspired to get this initiative going and I started reaching out to potential groups and the NDIS to see if I could get Nouri Studios off the ground in Melbourne.

“As was the case with many people though, COVID-19 halted the plans in Melbourne, and I moved down here where the idea followed me.”

Ms Mahoney said Nouri Studios allowed participants to practise social skills and build a strong social connection through a fun, interactive and an inclusive environment within the community.

All classes will take place at local art studio and gallery Artisans of Australia running both morning and afternoon sessions within one of the studios provided.

Participants will take on a project set out by Ms Mahoney over three hours with each session running at a 1:6 ratio.

Support workers are also welcome with participants if needed.

“Artisans of Australia has been amazing throughout this whole process,” Ms Mahoney said.

“Helen Meikle, the founder of Artisans, has welcomed me to the space with open arms and she’s always willing to go the extra step. Artisans of Australia is an established studio, and it already has a community connection to Drysdale. So, as someone starting a community-based program with limited resources, the studio is a great way to provide a creative program to those in need of one.”

Anyone looking for more information about Nouri Studios can do so by phoning Madelein on 0450 687 818 or emailing [email protected].