These students are in a new country, learning a new language – and they can already call themselves exhibiting artists.
Young students with AMES St Albans have taken part in Brimming Out Of The Frame, an arts project designed to help them connect with their new community.
The 25 students are all migrants, refugees and asylum seekers newly arrived in Australia.
The group spent time with artists Debbie Quadri and Rhiannon Thomas, who taught them different techniques before they were let loose to construct their own mural and other artworks illustrating their new lives in Australia. The works are now on display at Gallery Sunshine Everywhere and the St Albans library. Student Hattaya Yensamer, 31, who moved to Australia from Thailand, said the new experience had helped her embrace Australian culture. “We’re all from different countries, we’re all new here, and the artists helped us to brainstorm.” Student Lawrence Sonyah added: “We feel happy and proud [of this work].”
The ‘Brimming’ project explores ways to exhibit artwork out of the frame and in community venues. It is funded by a Brimbank council community grant. AMES helps new and recently arrived refugees and migrants settle by teaching English and vocational training.
