Community
8 May, 2024
Art sessions bring people together
A GROUP of families have found a safe space to grow and connect with new people in Port Campbell.
Launching late last year, Creative Minds Art and Support sees local neurodivergent children and teens share a weekly art class.
The class is a time not only for the children themselves to form bonds and enjoy an activity specifically designed for them, but for the parents to seek out families who share a similar path to them.
Creative Minds Art and Support was the brainchild of Sharon Cotton and Sally Cashmore who were driven by the needs of their own autistic children.
“We came together to create an experience for the neurodivergent children and teens of our community so they had a place of acceptance where they could be their unique selves and explore art with the gift of their creative minds,” Ms Cotton said.
“We recognised there was a gap in service delivery within our shire, so sought to turn what was a challenge in to a positive experience for our children.
“Many of us have to drive hours a week to access therapies, if they are available to us. Regional Victoria experiences a severe lack of services or has extreme wait lists.
“We are really excited to offer this experience for our community.”
Ms Cotton said the objective of the art group was to provide a two-fold experience.
“I was motivated by the desire for my twins to experience the same joy of an after school activity as their older siblings, to feel a part of a group and to have the opportunity to shine for their individual talents,” she said.
“We also want to create a space for parents and build a community for those who are neurodivergent or have neurodivergent children.”
The group recently held its first get together, hosting a paint n’ sip session with artist Jane Dowie.
Ms Cotton said of the 16 parents attending, two have adult autistic children.
“One of the mum’s was astounded that all the people in the room shared the same experience as her,” she said.
“She reflected on how when her son was a child it felt like it was only ever the two of them.
“Building a community of support with people who walk the same path is our intent and we feel like we are successfully cultivating this.”
When the pair originally floated the idea last year, a community fundraiser was launched to help cover the costs of purchasing easels and supplies.
Ms Cashmore said the response from the community was “overwhelming” and it was not long before the funds needed were raised.
She thanked those who have helped make the idea a reality.
“To have a great space like the rec reserve to have the class is amazing,” Ms Cashmore said.
Ms Cotton said the idea was brought to life after engaging art teacher Clare Younis.
“We are very grateful to our immediate community for showing us support to make this groups a reality,” she said.
“Beach Energy have recognised our objective and the importance our group has for creating a healthy, inclusive and engaged community.
“They have provided funding to us to purchase future equipment and supplies and to help subsidise the costs of operation.”
The Creative Minds Art and Support will begin a six week art block, starting Thursday, May 9 at 4.30pm at the Port Campbell Recreation Reserve.
The group averages about 10 children per session and costs $20 per child with NDIS funding able to be utilised for the program.
To find out more about the group or to book in, contact Sharon Cotton on 0418 507 256.