Thursday, August 24, 2023

Issue:

Mackay and Whitsunday Life

ACCESS IS LOVE

The walls of the Crossroad Arts office are adorned with the brightly coloured artworks from artists throughout the region as well as some from interstate.

The HeART(beats): Access is Love exhibition aims to help build a world where accessibility is understood as an act of love, instead of a burden or an afterthought.

The exhibition Opening Night coincided with the Mackay City and Waterfront’s ‘City Heart Fridays’ on Friday June 2. The free event which was Auslan interpreted showcased the exhibition accompanied by beats from local DJ Ryan while viewers enjoyed some nibbles and drinks.

Crossroad Arts Artistic Director Alison Richardson describes how the project has opened the door to thoughtful discussion of access, "It has been heartening to see so many community members from Mackay and beyond take part in this exhibition, the theme has seemed to really resonate with people,” she said.

“It has been a great opportunity to open up discussion about how we view support and providing access for others."

Natasha Tomlinson, Crossroad Arts Social Media Officer and Ambassador shared why she is excited to welcome the community in to visit the exhibit.

"I would love to see people come along and check out our artwork! It is important because we need more people to come here and meet new friends and new people."

The exhibition can be viewed in the Crossroad Arts office at 55 Wood St Mackay, with wheelchair access and image descriptions available digitally for people who are blind or vision impaired.

The HeART(beats): Access is Love exhibit will remain open to the public until Friday August 4, Monday - Friday, 9-5pm, with most works for sale and all proceeds going towards the 2023 Annual Giving Program.

In other news