General News
26 March, 2025
Showcasing region’s neurodivergent artists
AN OPPORTUNITY for neurodivergent artists to display their work is upcoming on Easter Sunday, April 20, in an exhibition titled Take Me to the Ocean sponsored by Creative Minds in partnership with Beach Energy.
The Port Campbell Arts Space is hosting the art show with the aim to celebrate neurodivergent children, teenagers and adults from across both Corangamite and Moyne shires.
Organiser Sharon Cotton said the exhibition was an opportunity to highlight the talent of neurodivergent people together in a public space.
“This is an opportunity for us to celebrate neurodivergent people and their art,” she said.
“The theme Take Me to the Ocean is about remembering we live in a beautiful place, inclusive of both shires, and to celebrate it.
“The theme might mean different things to people and can mean anything to the participants, particularly what they wish to highlight from their area.”
Ms Cotton said she was delighted to feature local neurodivergent photographer Sarah Pekin in the exhibition.
“It’s quite a privilege to have Sarah (Pekin) collaborate with us,” she said.
“Hopefully she will inspire other people in our community to contribute.”
Ms Pekin said she was honoured to be invited as the feature artist for the exhibition.
“When Sharon told me about the important work she and Sally (Cashmore) are doing at Creative Minds Art and Support, I was instantly on board with being involved in their exhibition,” she said.
“I work as a mentor to neurodivergent young people, so being part of the neurodivergent community and taking pride in my neurodivergent identity are important aspects of my life.
“I am so excited to see an exhibition that celebrates neurodivergent creativity and will highlight and showcase the talents of local neurodivergent artists to the wider community.
“This exhibition will be a great opportunity to give space to those who may often be overlooked to feel seen and heard.”
Ms Pekin said neurodivergent people offer a “unique perspective” and encouraged aspiring neurodivergent artists to embrace the opportunity to display their work.
“No one experiences the world quite like you do, and that’s what makes your art special,” she said.
“The thought of sharing your artwork can be daunting, but you never know who might connect with your art and feel seen because of it.
With the theme Take Me to the Ocean celebrating the coastline of south west Victoria, Ms Pekin said she felt it was a place people are “incredibly lucky” to live.
“Seascapes and coastal landscapes have been among my favourite subjects to photograph since I was young,” she said.
“Growing up without knowing I was neurodivergent, I often struggled – especially in school – without understanding why.
“I found solace in photography.
“Heading down to the beach, finding a quiet spot, and spending hours watching the tides while capturing the beauty and power of the sea became a source of comfort and creative inspiration.”
Ms Cotton said all works of any medium from neurodivergent children, teenagers and adults would be welcome for the exhibit.
“We would be delighted to accept works they wish to display,” she said.
“We will be taking displays a week prior to the show so we have time to hang them and organise the display.”
In anticipation for the exhibition, students at Hampden Specialist School have had the theme of the art show built into the art curriculum to encourage participation.
If you would like to contribute a piece to this art show or require support with materials and supplies, please contact Ms Cotton on 0418 507 256.
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