Amici House hosted an Art Exhibition in December for the first time, with paintings created by the NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme) and Community Art Classes. Hundreds of guests turned out for the exhibition to celebrate the artistic flair of clients ahead of the Christmas holidays.
Art Class Teacher at Amici House, Ali Gillet, couldn’t hide her happiness after only two months of leading the classes. “Art generates bravery and confidence in our students. It empowers them to make small decisions like what brush to use, how to correct colour, or how to see the colour or shape needed,” Ali says.
Clinton Wade, an artist from the NDIS Class, had his artwork exposed at the event. For 2023, he says, the goal is to use a different painting style. “I’m having fun and learning. I want to try different approaches, like charcoal on animal paintings,” Clinton says. Karen Petersen, another artist from the NDIS Class, revealed that the classes are used as a time to relieve stress. “I have anxiety, and I feel calm and relaxed among friends during the art classes,” she says.
Co.As.It. CEODina Ranieri thanked Amici House staff and praised the importance of artist classes held at the Community Centre. “An exhibition like this highlights the work we do in the community, and it highlights us bringing participants together to join an activity. We know that art is an element that reduces stress and anxiety in many people, and all of those within our creative flair enjoy it.”
At the end of the event, gifts were raffled to the guests. Amici House is a Community Hub in Brisbane that runs activities and services for older Australians and members of the local community and beyond. Visitors enjoy yoga classes, art classes, women’s groups, technology classes, Latin dancing, NDIS art classes and health services such as podiatry and physiotherapy.
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