TAC Calls For Road Trauma Artists to Picture This

09 Sep 2010

MEDIA RELEASE: 9 September 2010

The Transport Accident Commission (TAC) is calling on artists who have experienced road trauma to enter their work in a client art exhibition to be held later this year.

Picture This, an exhibition of inspiring work by TAC clients, will be staged at Melbourne’s Federation Square Atrium from 5-7 November 2010 and selected works at Geelong Gallery from Friday 12 to Sunday 14 November.

The exhibition will showcase pieces by people who were artists before being involved in a transport accident, have taken up art since or have included art therapy in their rehabilitation.

Now in its second year, Picture This provides road trauma victims the chance to share their experiences of road trauma through art.

TAC Head of Community Relations, Phil Reed, said art therapy has long been known to offer therapeutic and diagnostic benefits and he encouraged clients to enter their work.

"The advantage of art therapy is that it allows anyone, of any age to express how they are feeling," Mr. Reed said.

"Last year’s exhibition proved there are some talented artists out there who have experienced road trauma and now is the time for those people to show off that talent and tell their story in a non-verbal way."

Several of the artists who entered Picture This last year have significant injuries from road trauma, including quadriplegia and acquired brain injuries (ABI).

"The TAC recognizes that art can help our clients reconnect with their bodies after suffering injuries and it is a way to rebuild skills and improve confidence," Mr. Reed said.

Wayne Frederick Hall, an entrant in last year’s exhibition said entries covered a range of visual mediums.

"Everyone has their own tale to tell and every expressive piece was an artistic conversation," Mr. Hall said.

To enter, artists should enter online at www.tac.vic.gov.au/clientzone or telephone 03 5225 6504.  Artwork entered can include paintings, drawings, photographs, ceramics, jewellery and mosaics

Artists have a chance to win the People's Choice Award as voted by exhibition visitors. The prizes are Art Supply vouchers worth $500, $250 or $100.

For further information please contact: Sarah Campbell ph 5225 6464 or 0429 294 262.