By Kaz Thorpe, Arts Writer
I recently visited the Warwick Artists’ Group (WAGs) at their art studio in Willi Street. Current president, Juanita Faint, had organised a morning tea for two of their very special members, Noela Ryan and Kim Spendelove. Both ladies have special learning needs and live in Milpara supported accommodation, were referred to the WAGs by the Endeavour Foundation.
Fourteen years ago, the Endeavour Foundation contacted WAGs President, Shirley Monaghan, and asked whether Noela, who had an interest in painting could attend some art lessons. Shirley did much more and took Noela into her heart, teaching and coaching her for over nine years until she retired from an active role in the club. The great respect and connection between the two were clear to see as they embraced and remembered their journey together.
Shirley noted that initially Noela had “lots of energy” but gradually through art practice “the art began to settle her”. “Art quietened her mind”. Previously, Noela had been directed to paint within a square, “yet Noela knew no boundaries”. Over time, Shirley relates that Noela is able to be “careful around the edges” and has developed skill in the using brushes. “They are getting better at the details”.
More recently Kim has also been attending art lessons. Both ladies have learned and developed much over the years. Shirley stated that “they have never looked back”. The friendship and collegial atmosphere at WAGs have also developed their social skills and helped their speech. Both women love to paint animals, flowers, birds and due to the persistence of their present coach, Juanita Faint, landscapes. The ladies love to gift their art to their families and friends. At the morning tea, the studio was adorned with samples of their beautiful paintings.
The Art Studio, that day was a hub of activity inside and out. WAGs have just received a grant from the Southern Downs Regional Council to paint the external building and the painters were busily sanding and scraping the boards. The group would like to acknowledge and thank the Council for their generosity.
Next year, WAGs are celebrating their sixtieth anniversary with a special exhibition at the Warwick Art Gallery. The club has come a long way in that time, always seeking to address the needs of all its over forty members.
