THE raw, emotional and also uplifting experiences of people navigating alcohol and drug dependency (AOD) have been brought to life in a unique art exhibition on display at Tamborine Mountain Library.
Voices Through Art – Recovery, Renewal and Reconnection is a heartfelt collaboration between the Salvation Army Gold Coast Recovery services – Fairhaven and the library as part of National Recovery Month, shining a light on the lived experience of individuals navigating recovery.
From September 2nd to the 6th, the community is invited to experience this unique exhibition featuring a striking collection of sculpture, visual art and mixed media pieces created by current and former participants of the Salvation Army’s AOD programs.
“Art helps us say the things we often struggle to put into words,” Project Coordinator Te Amo Tuuta said.
“This exhibit is not about perfection, it’s about progress. It’s a space where recovery is honoured, stigma is challenged, and hope is visible. It is not just the art pieces, it’s the words and the emotions behind the pieces that resonate with others; that in itself is an artform.”
Each artwork will be accompanied by the artist’s own reflections on what recovery means to them – sometimes poetic, sometimes raw – but always authentic.
Te Amo said themes range from loss and regret to resilience, spirituality, and self-love. Some works are anonymous, others use first names or chosen pseudonyms, offering participants the freedom to express themselves safely.
She said creative expression has long been recognised as a therapeutic tool in mental health and addiction recovery.
“Art is another option while residents are on their recovery journey to discover this creative part of themselves.
“For some residents, completing a piece of art is an achievement in itself, completing a piece of art while being substance free is another.
“The exhibition highlights how creativity fosters self-awareness, confidence, and meaningful connection – all vital in long-term recovery,” Te Amo said.
Some of the pieces of art will be available for sale, including art glass creations by acclaimed artist Ken Bartlett.
September is National Recovery Month, a time to celebrate the achievements of those in recovery and acknowledge the work of support services. Voices Through Art aligns with national efforts to elevate stories of hope, raise awareness of recovery pathways, and encourage compassion over judgment.
