Under the Floorboards

Everyone’s journey is different, A red carpet is rolled out for some.
Whilst others trod under the floorboards, Away from the lights and the sun…

UnitingCare Ballarat begins a unique artistic project, Under the Floorboards, with the first of 12 artist residences commencing on Monday 30th July.  Under the Floorboards is a collaborative project in which renowned Western District artists will create works based on their experiences at one of the diverse programs provided by UnitingCare Ballarat.

UnitingCare Ballarat has a unique connection with so many parts of the local community and the project will offer an insight into its operations and an understanding of the individuals, communities, many services it provides and the people it assists.

Cliff Barclay, Executive Director of UnitingCare Ballarat said:

“We all see the world through different eyes and this project is a unique opportunity to have our services framed through the eyes of an artist”. 

The project will culminate in a gala event with an art auction and performance of the works in October 2013 and the proceeds will provide funding for the services.  “This wonderful project offers the opportunity to help on so many levels.  The artists will engage with our programs enabling them to experience the issues we confront, the artworks will speak to the public about our services and the people we assist and finally, the sale will help us to continue to provide these vital services” he said.

The disciplines of the first six artists involved are as diverse as the programs they hope to capture:

August: Aldona Kmiec a Ballarat photographer will create mosaic photographic portraits of the staff and volunteers across the agency

September: Grace Bailey will paint large scale portraits of the Sudanese community within our congregation

October: Kate Vivian, will make plates and bowls with the help of the clients at the Breezeway meals program

November: Tracey Bourne is a playwright who will create a play based on the characters she encounters at Reid’s Guest House

December: Linda Franklin will be painting recycled floorboards at Karrung Youth Foyer with the residents

January: Kim Anderson will create line drawings of the hands of the clients in the Aged and disAbility Program

At completion of the residencies a series of events beginning in October 2013 will be conducted to further raise awareness of the project and its results. At those events the residency artworks will be exhibited / performed, with resultant income from performances and associated auctions raised to support the work of UnitingCare Ballarat

Given the power and potential of art, it is impossible to imagine that UnitingCare Ballarat can achieve its mission without the use of art and what it can do for the human soul.

The City of Ballarat Arts & Cultural Development is a project partner with UnitingCare Ballarat, extending opportunities for quality arts experiences to all members of the community and providing significant professional development opportunities to local & regional artists.

ABC Ballarat is the project media partner.

Cliff Barclay

Executive Director – UnitingCare Ballarat

Media contact :  Susan Howell 03 5337 2770,  [email protected]               
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Under the Floorboards Uniting Care Art Project