Nestled in the picturesque hinterland suburb of Gilston on leafy Kookaburra Drive, sits the aptly named Kookaburra Art Studio. Founded by artist and passionate disability advocate Diana Penaloza Aponte, the art studio provides people with disabilities an opportunity to express themselves within a community where they feel fully included.
This year, the Kookaburra artists are taking their talents to Mudgeeraba for a vibrant 9-day exhibition at the community centre.
From 2 December to 10 December 10am-2pm members of the public can view and purchase a wide range of beautiful paintings from these talented artists, in celebration of International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The official opening event will be held on Saturday 6 December from 2-4pm at Mudgeeraba Community Centre Hall 2, at Firth Park. Tickets are free and can be reserved here.
When asked why the exhibition was so important to her, Diana said that art is a shared language that transcends barriers.
“As an immigrant mother of two, uncertain of my path, I chose to pursue my dream of teaching art in the community. The beautiful people with disabilities are my greatest teachers – they improved my English, gave me confidence, and showed me that this work truly matters,” she said.
“I continue to advocate for families who have a loved one with a disability because I understand the challenges of feeling different and excluded from mainstream events. This exhibition was created to recognise their achievements, provide a platform, and show that the disability community deserves opportunities to shine.”
Jordan Khalaf is one of the artists exhibiting at Infinitive Perspectives and is very excited about the opportunity to show the community his hard work and love of art. Jordan has been part of the Doyles Art Award for several years and held his own solo exhibition earlier this year where he sold several paintings.
KIKI the artist is a Nerang local. She said that painting brings her joy and lets her share her world with colour and imagination. Her confidence has increased dramatically since beginning art classes at Kookaburra, and she is looking forward to sharing her work at Infinitive Perspectives.
If you are an art fan looking to fill that empty spot on your wall with a unique piece or are looking for a daytime activity with family or friends, then this exhibition won’t disappoint.
You can find more information here.
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