Factory 51 was transformed last Wednesday night for our Seen and unseen art exhibition. Now in its third consecutive year, the exhibition featured the work of professional and emerging artists with disability in celebration of International Day of People with Disability.

The event was a great success and was attended by artists, sponsors, family members and the local community.

“It’s always wonderful to see the community come together on such an important day to celebrate the talents of artists with disability,” said EPIC Assist Disability Services Manager, David Law.

“The event continues to go from strength to strength every year, and I think I can confidently say this is our best exhibition yet!”

The artwork came from locations across Australia and included paintings, drawings, photography, jewelry, accessories and stationery.

Many art pieces were sold on the night, with a number of artists completely selling out.

“It’s pretty incredible to look around and know that every piece of art on the walls has been created by a person with disability. Each piece of art was not displayed because the artist has a disability, but was displayed because of the incredible craftsmanship and talent of the artists,” said David.

This year’s theme ‘Seen and unseen,’ was all about exploring and embracing the experiences and realities of people with both visible and invisible disabilities.

In her second year exhibiting in the gallery, Lily Mitchell relates to this year’s theme on a personal level.

“The artwork on display allows people with disability to be ‘seen’ for more than their labels, it brings depth to someone who previously may have been overlooked or ‘unseen’ because of their disability,” states Lily.

EPIC would like to thank our sponsors: Optimum Contact, HSBC, Advivo, Bravo Productions, Trevor Evans, Custom Fleet and Upstream, for contributing the success of the evening.

We would also like to thank our wonderful artists, without whom the night would not have been possible: Annalee Beer, Lisa Blake, Denis Braddy, Tanya Darl, Stephanie Dyson, Catherine Fisher, Blake Golding, Zoe Hankins, Donna Hawkins, Alexandria Heather, Data Hibra, Lily Mitchell, Belinda Peel, Yasmin Powell, Jeanette Purkis, Phillipa Maclurkin, Paul Reilly, Lynda Rose, Peter Rowe, Jennifer Ryan, Noreen Walsh, Gabriel Wischki, Mathew Worsley, Peter Shaw, Larry Stumer, Raymond Wallwork and Febe Zylstra.