Exhibition puts road trauma in the spotlight

21 Jul 2011

MEDIA RELEASE: 21 JULY 2011

Geelong Gallery will play host to a unique and emotional art exhibition by people recovering from road trauma from next weekend.

Picture this 2011, an exhibition of inspiring works by TAC clients, will be at Geelong Gallery from 30 July to 4 September.

The artworks tell the story of the artists and their experiences of road trauma. Some of the exhibitors involved were artists before their accident, while others have taken up art more recently.

TAC Chief Executive Officer Janet Dore said several of the artists had significant injuries from road trauma, including quadriplegia and acquired brain injuries. Ms Dore said life after a transport accident was about more than recovering from physical injury.

"The artists have used art to help them deal with the emotional trauma that follows a car crash," she said.

"Art has helped our clients regain their confidence and in some cases, learn new skills to help cope with everyday life."

Geelong Gallery Director Geoffrey Edwards said while some of the exhibits were understandably dramatic in character, others are actually lyrical, picturesque and even tranquil in kind.

"In any case, they capture our attention for various reasons, not least for their evocative storylines," Mr Edwards said.

Exhibiting 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 Emily Bogue on 0429 416 778.

What:   Picture this 2011
Exhibition dates: 30 July to 4 September 2011
Where:  Geelong Gallery, Little Malop Street, Geelong (03 5229 3645)
Entry: FREE
Open: Daily 10am – 5pm