By Shamsiya Hussainpoor
For the very first time, a Monbulk resident artwork has been showcased in the Australian National Veterans Art Museum (ANVAM).
In a heartwarming celebration of creativity, healing and community, Monbulk artist Keith, a member of the army reserve and a local volunteer firefighter for Monbulk CFA has his artwork displayed at the ANVAM located near the Shrine of Remembrance on St Kilda Road.
The exhibition opened on Tuesday 1 October as part of the Melbourne Fringe Festival and will run for several weeks.
Keith’s involvement with the museum began just a year ago during the Festival of Veteran Arts, an initiative that connects veterans and emergency workers through various artistic expressions – the festival aims to foster community and healing through art, allowing participants to explore their creativity while sharing their experiences.
“I was taken aback when they asked me to exhibit my work,” Keith said.
“It’s a great opportunity to connect with others who have similar backgrounds and experiences, and to showcase the therapeutic nature of art.”
The exhibition features 12 large works, each reflecting Keith’s everyday life experiences, memories from his childhood in rural Victoria, and the beauty of the mundane.
He said his piece titled ‘So Go and Make It Rain’ deeply resonated with a lot of people, capturing the essence of nature’s cycles and the joy of simple moments.
For Keith, art serves as a form of therapy, helping him navigate the daily severity of life.
“When I’m painting, I lose track of time,” Keith said.
“It’s like meditation – it clears my mind and rejuvenates my spirit – but knowing that others appreciate my work is a just bonus.”
The museum, a small charity organisation, provides an inclusive space for artists connected to the defence forces and emergency services – it aims to expand its reach, fostering a greater sense of belonging among families and individuals within the veteran community.
The artist said the importance of this connection is not just about the art but rather it’s about creating a social safety net for those who might feel lost or need support – everyone deserves to feel included and valued.
Australian National Veterans Art Museum chairman and director Mark Johnston said Veterans like Keith are vital to the community, and showcasing their artwork allows both fellow veterans and the broader public to connect with their experiences through art.
“Veterans normally have a first career in the military—whether in the Army, Navy, or Air Force – and some transition to civilian life after serving in the reserves, while it’s rare for veterans to pursue artistic careers, particularly as musicians in military bands, having a cultural institution dedicated to creating opportunities for them is invaluable,” Mark said.
“This support isn’t unique, as other communities may have similar institutions, but it is uncommon, and I’ve often heard expressions of envy from other artists who wish for such backing, for instance, we recently held the first-ever exhibition at Parliament House in Canberra, showcasing works by the veteran community, including current and former service members and their families. This event was truly special.”
Mark said there have been so many highlights but often the most meaningful moments are the simple ones that come unexpectedly – like witnessing the look on someone’s face when we provide them with a chance to express what their art means to them.
“I encourage everyone to attend the exhibition and experience it for themselves, for veterans and their families in the community, I urge you to explore the arts if you haven’t already,” he said.
“It’s not limited to just visual arts, it’s any form of art – whether it’s crafts, woodworking, or something else entirely.”
The exhibition is now open, and visitors have the chance to view the local artist’s talented artwork and engage in the artistic process through various workshops scheduled throughout the festival.
With his deep commitment to both art and community, Keith’s journey exemplifies the healing power of creativity.
The exhibition will be open to the public from 10am – 4pm on Tuesdays, Thursdays and 10am – 2pm Saturdays for the duration of the Melbourne Fringe Festival, 1-20 October, 2024.
