THE unique art exhibition showcasing the journey of people recovering from alcohol and drug dependency (AOD) at the Tamborine Mountain library has been hailed a huge success.
Voices Through Art – Recovery, Renewal and Reconnection was 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.
Fairhaven project coordinator Te Amo Tuuta said the exhibition was so well received it was extended for a further two weeks.
“It was a wonderful venue and well supported by the library staff,” she said, adding that she hoped it will become an annual event.
Fairhaven lead art facilitator Lene King said the Fairhaven clients who visited the exhibition were proud and delighted at the response their art works received.
One visitor said it impacted them profoundly, adding that seeing the story of addiction made so visible had been overwhelming in the best way.
Another described it as a poignant reminder of the many struggles individuals face in their journeys of reclaiming their lives.
Lene explained that the experience has made residents feel seen and valued and has created new impetus to create more art and to use it as a tool to externalise their emotions and self-regulate when they get into their flow state.
“One of the artists received a commission to complete an artwork of a Kombi van for a buyer who was so taken by the piece he saw on display,” she said.
“It has been a very rewarding experience that may lead to future careers in art for several participants. This generates hope and builds self-esteem along the road to recovery.”
Te Amo said while the exhibit has been well received by the public, the true measure lay in the response from Fairhaven AOD residents.
“Many of the residents have expressed a deep sense of pride and validation upon seeing their works publicly displayed. It has been moving to witness residents reconnect with their sense of self-worth and creativity, many for the first time outside the influence of substances.
“One resident put it simply: “This is the first piece I’ve ever completed in recovery.”
“Another remarked how powerful it was to see strangers admire something that came from their own story.
“Even for past residents who have since left Fairhaven, the knowledge that their artwork is part of this exhibit acts as a continued affirmation of identity and growth. There’s not much that’s more powerful than that kind of reinforcement.”
Those wishing to support the exhibit are welcome to contribute art supplies or offer their artistic time and talents toward future creative sessions.
Expressions of interest can be sent to: teamo.tuuta@salvationarmy.org.au or lene.king@salvationarmy.org.au
