Think outside of the box

A pop-up exhibition celebrating International Day of People with Disability (IDPD) has opened in central Geelong featuring works from around 60 local artists living with a disability.

The Out of the Box Art show and Inclusion Space at Renew Geelong will run until December 12 and showcases paintings and 3D sculptures expressing the artists’ inspirations and personal experiences.

It is curated by renowned textile designer Chela Edmunds who has worked for global fashion brands DKNY and Vera Wang.

Individual and group works are on display from six local studios including Art Gusto, Karingallery, Rachinger Gallery; as well as Art’sKool, Nelson Park and Barwon Valley.

IDPD is celebrated annually on December 3 to increase awareness and understanding of people living with disability with the city hosting a range of workshops and events from now until December 12.

City of Greater Geelong Mayor Bruce Harwood said the exhibition was an excellent example of how art allows people to express themselves.

“It’s fantastic to see this exhibition come to life and highlight the amazing work of our artists and also the huge contribution people living with disability make to our region,” Cr Harwood said.

“The inspiring artworks showcase the powerful role that art plays in giving people a voice and shaping attitudes and perceptions in our community.”

Cr Anthony Aitken said International Day of People with Disability is an important opportunity for everyone to celebrate inclusion.

“Everyone in our community has an ability, often the biggest barriers faced by people living with a disability are other people’s attitudes,” he said.

“This exhibition is a wonderful showcase of ability and talent, and an example of what can be achieved when we support someone’s ability.”

The exhibition at 105–107 Moorabool Street is open daily from 10.30am until 4.30pm until December 12, for more information visit geelongaustralia.com.au/events.