“It’s such a pleasure to come in and see the honesty, the joy, and the incredible creativity that the artists bring to these art programs.”
That’s how Dom, who runs an art therapy program at our Community Day Program, Garden House, describes the experience of working with artists living with disability who benefit from NDIS services.
Dom’s journey into art therapy was organic. Starting as a support worker, she was asked to run an art program because of her art background. One program led to another, and she eventually found her way to Sylvanvale.
She sees art therapy as a powerful tool for healing, self-understanding, and self-expression and sat with us to talk about the positive impact these programs have on participants.
Fearless Creativity
According to Dom, the creative process seems to come naturally to the artists she has met during her sessions.
“There’s a natural boldness and confidence in their approach to creating art,” she said. “More often than not, they already have a visual language, and they know what materials and subjects they’re drawn to. These guys are fearless with their art. It just flows.”
Unlike mainstream art circles, where fear of judgment often stifles creativity, Dom sees unending support for each other’s work.
“So often you hear people saying, ‘look what you did, it’s amazing,” she said. “Art can be territorial and snobbish, but that doesn’t exist here.”
Building empowerment through art
Dom works closely with participants to understand their interests and find the right materials and mediums.
“It can be a challenge, but when we find what works, it’s amazing. One participant in their 70s had never made art before. They didn’t think they could—but when they finally did, they loved it. Their work was featured in exhibitions. It was an incredible experience.”
“We put a huge emphasis on the individual so that we can help them find their voice and empower them.”
Over the last decade, Sylvanvale has hosted numerous exhibitions for the people at our community day programs or who live in our accessible accommodation and Supported Independent Living homes, giving them the chance to showcase not just their work, but their lives.
“There’s something so special about exhibiting art. It’s nurturing during creation, and then there’s a whole other life when you exhibit. It’s about feeling honoured and valued.”
For Dom, these programs are a reminder of what art is truly about:
“I once came in after a stressful exhibition that I was part of, and I felt wrung out emotionally. I saw the honesty and unbridled creativity here, and it filled me up again. Their art isn’t for show or pride. It’s sheer joy. That’s the essence of what art is supposed to be.”
