Hodge’s portrait presented

Cr Hodge officially launched Arts of Minds at Bar 61 on October 10. There was a lively atmosphere as the crowd were treated to a range of music and other entertainment.

Ms Burke says it made for a challenging but enjoyable experience.

“It was very noisy and very alive and really celebrating mental health and the awareness of it. So I had to paint with all this going on around me, and lots of people and lots of bongo drums drumming, which really different to what I’ve done.”

Ms Burke gave the portrait to Cr Hodge. She said she it was a chance for her to show her appreciation for all Cr Hodge has done in the community.

“I’ve given this portrait to Rose because she does so much for the community, and sometimes jobs like Rose does can be a bit thankless.”

Art of the Minds focused on people dealing with mental illness through creativity.

Ms Burke said that through the painting workshops she ran, the therapeutic qualities of enjoying art were clear.

“With anxiety and depression, things like painting just give you another focus.”

Ms Burke has previously been a semi-finalist of the Doug Moran National Portrait Prize.

She has an exhibition that is open at Eagles Nest in Aireys Inlet until December 5.