Live Dream or Regret ? --- Art Exhibition for People with Disabilities & Xmas Cards

Life is constantly testing us for our level of commitment,

and life's greatest rewards are reserved for those
who demonstrate a never-ending commitment to life.
As simplistic as this may seems,
it is the common denominator separating those
who live their dreams from those
who live in regret.
---Anthony Robbins

Becoming a professional artist and being a professional is not easy. It incessantly tests my trust in myself and commitment like the say as above. Also, even though I've loved painting and drawing since childhood, probably, if I did not get a disability in the leg, I would not be a professional artist.

At a monthly meeting at KuRingGai Art Society, guest speakers and established artists tell interesting backstage stories and demonstrate wonderful skills. The common factor is their great passion and commitment with art. None of them has ever talked of talents. In my view, a "talent" is an easy excuse to give up pursuing a dream at a very early stage of learning. A member gave me the info of an interesting exhibition.

I popped up Art Exhibition for People with Disabilities at Boonah Creative Arts Centre within Phillip Mall in West Pymble. Open from this Sat to next Wed.
Mon13th,Tues14th 10-3pm Wed.15th 10-1pm
The Art Centre offers the programs for people with varied difficulties. Twice a year, they have exhibitions to show students' hard work for fundraising at the same time.

A space was a bit tight, but in all, 48 paintings were proudly on walls! As well as others, many people with disabilities came to the opening--down syndrome, intellectual disabilities and so on. A crowd even poured to an outside. I saw people with disabilities' faces shining up in a heavenly joy. They looked so proud of their achievements for this event. Surprisingly, some works were already sold! All framed works were under $300, very accessible price setting.

Under the enthusiastic leader, Heidi, compassionate and very humble staff are working. One of them, Jo gave us a short speech that began with, "Above all, artist! Artists! And carers, volunteers...." She was grateful for all the related people. When I had a chat with the staff, "I'm learning," all of them said with a nice smile. 6 arts workers and 30 teachers. Up to 9 students per class. Lovely small class!!

Friends, once I assisted people with intellectual disabilities. They are, in my eyes, NOT intellectual disabilities at all. Often much smarter than me, social workers and staff. However, it is true that love and great patience are required for carers to communicate. So, please imagine how wonderful Heidi's team is. Personally, I really love and admire these unknown heros in our society.

We, professionals also know how difficult it is to sell works. But these artists are, indeed, doing very well! In a commercial aspect, the artists already overcome disabilities and compete with us in a healthy manner. Furthermore, they show the great potential and abilities towards the future. Of course, being practical and realistic is important. I do not mean to deny the harsh reality and serious difficulties for the students. But if appropriate assistance is provided for these students, they could be successful as professionals. People can gain self-esteem, income, automacy, independence and social membership.

If anyone is interested in offering help or support, the contact is below.
Boonah Creative Arts Centre, Centacare, Broken Bay
Shop 27 The Phillip Mall
Kendall St, West Pymble 2073
Phone (02) 9499 5675
Fax (02) 9499 5681
email: heidi.mecklem@dbb.org.au
Centacare Broken Bay
This exhibition encouraged me so much and I learned many. I believe in invisible things--love, hope and dream. We can turn them into visible.

OK, Friends, here are my Christmas cards. A bit hectic after a computer hell and before Christmas. But after Christmas, I'd like to upload a post every Monday like before. Have a wonderful weekend!

Live Dream or Regret ? --- Art Exhibition for People with Disabilities & Xmas Cards