By Tyler Wright
Eight mums from the Dandenong Ranges are preparing to have their work showcased in a new exhibit at Selby Community House, opening on Friday 9 September.
Three photographers, one felt artist, an illustrator, one watercolour artist, a landscape quilter and origami creator will share their work with the community in the Mums of the Hills (MotHs) Makers exhibition.
“Because there’s a mix of professional artists in there and mums who are just emerging, I think it gives everyone the opportunity to see what’s possible, both in a professional sense and taking that step and having a go,” Selby Community House project coordinator Nikki Wellington said.
“We’ve been in lockdown, they’ve got kids, sometimes this is their only outlet; and to turn their outlet into something that they can show people and be proud of is very close to my heart.”
Nikki said the exhibition came about as the result of a grant from Yarra Ranges Council, and as a MotHs member herself, reached out to founder Belinda Young for a collaboration.
The music at the opening event will also be provided by a MotHs member, with the hope more local mums will utilise the space at Selby Community House in the future.
“We’ve got occasional care, we’ve got space to be hired for meeting rooms, lounge room, the social events…MotHs in the past have held clothing parties, [and] creative crafts gatherings as well,” Nikki said.
“I’d like to think that we’ve got that space for them too, and that they don’t have to travel to Olinda necessarily.”
The multimedia exhibition will be open to the public until Monday 17 October, at 2/1 Minak Road in Selby.
