MEET OUR ARTISTS

For proud Jiman man Duane, art has never existed as just a way of creating; it’s been a bridge to healing and a medium for expressing connections with family, culture, country and community.

Alison has built something more than a place to display art - the gallery has become a learning hub and a community where artists can find their voice and improve their practice.

“I connected with the meaning behind what the exhibition aims to promote, which is so important these days and so prevalent, especially today with everything that’s going on. I don’t usually do exhibitions, but I think this one just really appealed to me because of the meaning behind it.”

"Initially I was difficult and resistant - I didn't want to take medication and I didn't want to make changes to help my mental health, but that didn't really work, so then I started learning about self-care and how to manage difficult thoughts."

“I think it was sink or swim and I didn’t want to live like that anymore. It took a lot of strength to make that choice and there have been many ups and downs.”

I am honoured to return as Curator of Recovered Futures Art Exhibition this year. I feel privileged to examine each artist's work and read their accompanying histories and stories. It...

“Everyone who was my closest people just went. I was confronted with new people and the whole experience was confronting and terrifying, wonderful and scary.” 

After a life-changing workplace accident whose tendrils wove their way into her life to leave more than just a permanent physical disability, Felicity Clarke began to create a series of...

Spending his formative years in the turbulent town of Rotorua, New Zealand, Pauly Jay is quick to admit life could have turned out very differently for him. 

I follow my intuition because it’s led me to this really good place. Even when I was in my darkest of moments, intuition led me out. My higher self, my angels, always with me and guiding me.

I can allow the difficulties to come and go without judgement and just be in the moment. Not worry about tomorrow or yesterday, just today, be grateful I got to wake up this morning.

“Mental illness doesn’t have a specific appearance. It looks like me.”