IN excess of $3500 was raised at an exhibition hosted by Fairview residents on Friday evening.
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More than 100 artworks were on display for ‘Art for Heart’s Sake’ with about 80 pieces sold on the night.
Coordinators of Fairview’s weekly art therapy program were delighted to present the residents’ works from the past two years, along with a few pieces kindly donated by the community.
Volunteer Bette Montgomery said although the crowd was smaller this year, the visitors were enthusiastic and generous.
“The most exciting part of the event was the support from the staff who helped set-up and then brought the residents in to view the exhibit,” Mrs Montgomery said.
“It was astonishing how the residents reacted, how they talked with each other and how they recognised works they or other residents had done,” she said.
“Acknowledging the work the residents have done, and then to get the public to enjoy it with them, was a real buzz.
“It was nice for the residents to catch up with people they hadn’t seen in a while, and it was an opportunity to encourage community members to come back and visit them.”
Mrs Montgomery said the exhibition was not a money-making exercise but more about showcasing and sharing.
“We are grateful to the community, and not just for their financial support,” she said.
“The staff support has also been amazing, of which we are most grateful for.
“The aim is to cover the costs of our program for the next two years, which is about $1000 in consumable expenses.
“The extra money will allow us to put paintings into other areas to decorate, which is a bonus.”
Mrs Montgomery wanted to reinforce the value of the program which has a proven therapeutic value, particularly for those suffering dementia.
There are six volunteers who help with the program including Mrs Montgomery, Joy Holmes, Helen Officer, Maureen Hickson, Michele Tomlinson and Robbie Buchanan.
This year’s exhibit also had the support of former volunteer, Jan Jones, who was involved with the program before leaving Moree, and also donated pieces for the event.
“Jan is a wonderful supporter and she is so enthusiastic about the program she came back to lend a hand,” Mrs Montgomery said.
She said Fairview was always open to having new volunteers for any of their programs, and peoples’ artistic ability was irrelevant in the case of their particular program.
If you would like more information about volunteering at Fairview, or the art program, call 6752 9200.