Art exhibition wins top award

THE District Council of Grant’s Art-Ability Exhibition has been named the Regional Winner of the Minister for Health and Wellbeing’s Excellence in Public Health Award.

The annual award recognises local government projects across South Australia that make a real difference to community wellbeing, social connection and inclusion.

Council’s Art-Ability Exhibition stood out for showcasing how creativity can bring people together to support inclusion and promote positive health and wellbeing for people living with disability.

District Council of Grant Mayor Kylie Boston said the award reflects council’s ongoing commitment to creating an inclusive and connected community.

“Art-Ability has brought together creativity and community in such a powerful way and we are incredibly proud to see this recognised at a state level,” Mayor Boston said.

“This award is a celebration of our district’s diversity and highlights how art can create connection. All participating artists have put a lot of effort and heart into their work which has brought so much joy to everyone who has visited the exhibition.”

The exhibition was an initiative of Council’s Access and Inclusion Advisory Panel as a meaningful way to celebrate International Day of People with Disability on December 3.

The day aims to increase awareness, understanding and acceptance of people living with disability.

Now on display in The Hangar Gallery at the Mount Gambier Regional Airport, the Art-Ability Exhibition features 38 artworks created by artists from across the Limestone Coast.

Each artwork is accompanied by a personal biography, allowing visitors to connect with each artist’s unique story and helping to shift focus from disability to ability by highlighting the strengths of each artist.

To further support participating artists, Council facilitated direct sales of their artwork through its own channels to remove barriers often faced in navigating sales and negotiations.

This service is provided free of charge with artists retaining 100 per cent of proceeds.

The exhibition space and its official opening event also provided valuable public health benefits with visitors and artists enjoying meaningful social interactions that help reduce isolation and support mental wellbeing.

Council ensured the space is welcoming and accessible that encourages participation and community connection.

Access and Inclusion Advisory Panel Presiding Member and Councillor Katherine Greene said the Excellence in Public Health Award acknowledges the benefits of inclusive initiatives to the community.

“Art-Ability is about more than just showcasing artwork, it’s about breaking down barriers and creating a space where everyone is truly seen,” Cr Greene said. “Every artwork speaks with heart and that’s what makes this project so special.

“The success of Art-Ability highlights why accessible art initiatives are so important and we hope this is just the beginning. Council looks forward to hosting more exhibitions like this in the future to keep celebrating creativity and inclusion across our district.”

The Art-Ability Exhibition will remain on display at The Hangar Gallery until the end of February next year.

An online gallery is also available to view at www.dcgrant.sa.gov.au/services/mount-gambier-regional-airport/the-hangar-gallery.