Creative Space Southern Highlands holds successful sensory day

The dedicated artist and volunteer at the Creative Space Southern Highlands in Bowral, wanted to support attendees with a disability.

The community arts hub opened in 2017, to give adults the chance to access artmaking areas and materials, share knowledge, make friends and learn skills without barriers.

It is run by the St Vincent de Paul Society.

This workshop was held on November 23, and is the second one to take place.

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"For me, it's important to draw attention to people's sensory needs and I think quite a lot of us have sensory issues and needs, and might not be aware of them," she said.

Attendees had the opportunity to sit at a table and touch and squeeze toys that were spiky, soft, and squishy, and use fidget toys in a familiar space.

The lights were dimmed, and people were encouraged to speak in softer voices.

A large canvas was also set up for a group artwork, where artists could use their hands, or other materials to apply paint.

For Clint, who specialises in abstract art, it is the chance to "learn about the feeling" of items, and enjoy tactile experiences.

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It also ran during Social Inclusion Week, which aims to connect communities and address isolation and exclusion of marginalised people.

Creative Space team leader Tania McInnes said it was important for the space to provide people with opportunities regardless of their ability, gender, sexual identity, race, religion or age.

"When we say we're in an inclusive art space, we mean that in every sense of the word," she said.

"That mix...we have a beautiful snapshot of society in the room."

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Julia and Clint are some of the artists who will have their pieces displayed in the Creating and Thriving exhibition, which opens on December 2, prior to the International Day of People with Disability.

Learn more about the hub by calling 0417 847 492, or searching for Creative Space Southern Highlands on Facebook, and Instagram.

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