Jonathon Welch opens the 2008 Schizophrenia Awareness Week Art Exhibition
On Friday 16 May 2008 at the Suncorp Piazza South Bank, Jonathon Welch from the ABC TV series ‘Choir of Hard Knocks’ officially opened the Schizophrenia Awareness Week Art Exhibition. The Opening Night was a wonderful celebration of artistic talent and it was a delight to have Jonathon with us for the special occasion. The cocktail party was attended by over 220 guests with Jonathon spending time signing art catalogues for artists and viewing the wonderful work on display.
Jonathon spoke from the heart when he told the story of a close family member who was diagnosed with schizophrenia at a young age. He spoke of her courage and determination in adjusting to life with mental illness. In telling his personal story he thanked the Fellowship for its work in encouraging and supporting individuals to become involved in projects like the Annual Art Exhibition.
Karen Struthers MP was also in attendance and congratulated all the exhibiting artists for their outstanding contributions. Both Jonathon and Karen purchased artwork on the night and many pieces of art made their way to the United Kingdom, America and interstate capital cities. A total of $32,486 worth of artwork sold over the seven days of the exhibition and there was a significant increase in the donations that where collected from visitors to the show.
During the week over 1500 people visited the marquees at the Suncorp Piazza, keeping volunteer staff very busy answering questions and raising awareness about mental illness in our community.
A special thanks needs to be given to the South Bank Corporation who assisted the Fellowship’s organising team with everything from the promotion of the event through to the set up of the show. Our South Bank event manager went out of her way to make Opening Night a memorable one, suggesting we use the Expo 88 coloured banners to add an element of excitement to the space.
So with the coloured banners streaming from the Piazza roof and the marquees alight, the stage was set for what was a wonderful night of art, food, wine, conversation and live music.
The art exhibition continues to grow in artists, artwork, attendance and anticipation, and we look forward to next year’s show.
President's Piece July 2008
For once, I don’t have a lot to report. We are currently awaiting building approval from the Brisbane City Council for work to proceed on Fellowship House. There are a number of heritage related issues to be addressed, and we are receiving ongoing assistance from our architects in an effort to resolve these issues. It is a heritage listed building, although we are unable to secure dedicated funding from government to perform restorative work which maintains the integrity of its heritage protected status.
Unfortunately, the building continues to deteriorate further while we await building approval. However, we now at least have acquired regular security patrols and a security fence which reduces the opportunity for unauthorised access and consequent vandalism. Click here to continue reading.
